Delaware’s Division of Public Health is working to help more people living with AIDS/HIV get the treatment they need.
Delaware Division of Public Health HIV prevention coordinator Bob Vella says of the roughly 3,500 Delawareans currently living with HIV/AIDS, 600 or 17% are not in care.
“We urge those that are infected to seek medical care immediately. The wonderful HIV medications today reduce the amount of virus in the blood to very low or undetectable levels and we call the viral suppression. And as a result, people living with HIV who remain in treatment and achieve and maintain viral suppression can stay healthy and live a near normal lifestyle,” said Vella.
Vella says in Delaware, 81% of those in care are virally suppressed. The number of Delawareans dying from HIV has dropped significantly over the past 10 years and significant advances in medical treatment has helped those infected lead normal lives.
Vella adds lack of medical insurance is not a barrier to HIV treatment in the First State.
“[Assistance includes] drug assistance, medical case management, food programs, health insurance help, home and community-based services and housing assistance, along with mental health and mental wellness counseling, nutrition counseling, eye and dental care and transportation,” said Vella.
IF you are HIV-positive and not in care or know of someone in that category, you can call DPH at 744-1050 and the agency will help navigate you through the system and to get the necessary care.
