Issued by Department of Health
21 July 2006
The Report on the National HIV and Syphilis Antenatal Sero-prevalence Survey in South Africa for 2005 was released by the Department of Health today and is available on www.doh.gov.za
The Department of Health conducted an HIV and syphilis prevalence survey in 2005 to estimate the HIV and syphilis prevalence. The survey estimates the national, geographical (provincial) and age distribution of HIV and syphilis. The information from the survey is also used to estimate HIV prevalence in the general population by means of a model.
In keeping with recent international trends to adjust HIV models and estimates on the basis of new empirical research evidence, the Department of Health applied the UNAIDS/ WHO model which has been designed to take into account the cumulative effects of interventions in estimating the number of people in the general population with HIV infection
Similar surveys have been conducted since 1990 to show yearly trends in HIV prevalence.
Survey results
The findings of the survey conducted during October 2005 show that HIV infection rates have remained at a similar level as they had been in the last year 2004 (29.5%) and in 2005 (30.2%).
The provincial estimates remain similar to the 2004 trends and the age estimates show that participants in the 20 to early 30 year age groups continue to have the highest infection rates.
The rate of HIV prevalence amongst teenagers has remained at a similar level in 2005 (15.9%) as it was in 2004 (16.1%).
With respect to population projections, it is estimated that 18.8% of persons in the 15-49 year age group have HIV infection. This is an estimated 4.9 million people who are in the age group 15 to 49 years. There is an estimated 235 060 children who are 14 years and younger living with HIV. The total population living with HIV is estimated at 5.54 million.
Syphilis prevalence for 2005 is 2.7%. The overall trend over time shows that syphilis is less prevalent compared to 1997.
Discussion
HIV prevalence estimate show that HIV prevalence rates for 2004 and 2005 are very similar. The prevalence profile continues to confirm the expectation and projections of numerous groups whose models suggest that South Africa will begin to see a decline in the prevalence profile.
The studies conducted over the years have begun to show that intervention programmes, which emphasise prevention, have a very important role in moderating HIV prevalence and the epidemiology of HIV infections in general.
The study once again has provided useful information on trends in HIV infection and this information would assist government and partners alike to further strengthen HIV and AIDS programmes.
The Department of Health reaffirms its commitment to work together with all sectors of our society to strengthen HIV prevention programmes as a means to curb the spread of HIV infection and reduce the impact of AIDS on our society.
Contact: Sibani Mngadi @ 0827720161