The Department of Health has assured the community of people living with HIV (PLHIV) that it has a stable supply of life-saving Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) drugs, amidst the “risk of running out” in other countries, as reported by the World Health Organization.
“With the drastic increase of the number of Filipinos getting infected with HIV over the past 10 years comes the continuous increase in budget allocation for procurement of HIV drugs,” DOH Sec. Francisco T. Duque III said.
Currently, there are 77,882 cumulative cases of HIV reported as of April, 45,444 of whom are already on life-long treatment.
The free antiretroviral drugs are available in 160 government and private treatment facilities situated around the country.
The DOH also stressed that most of the much-needed HIV drugs are sufficient until the end of the year, with additional buffer stocks.
There is likewise an ongoing procurement of these drugs that ensures supply for future use.
The 2021 procurement plan is being reviewed to consider increasing buffer stocks and higher cost due to issues related to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Thus, we call on HIV advocates, concerned individuals, groups, and organizations to help us disseminate this relevant information on the steady supply of HIV drugs to allay the fears and anxiety of our PLHIV,” the DOH chief said, noting that the agency will closely monitor the global situation and exhaust all possible means to maintain stable supply of HIV drugs, including close coordination with international partners.
On this note, the DOH encourages all PLHIV to closely communicate with their Health Care Providers in their HIV treatment hubs and primary HIV care facilities for their supply of HIV drugs, and adhere to their treatment regimen.
“Let me reiterate that we are taking HIV’s threat seriously and ensuring steady supply of HIV drugs is one key measure to stop this virus in its tracks,” Duque said. – Press release
April 16, 2024
