Health authorities in Bulawayo say the city recorded a sharp increase in new sexually transmitted infection (STI) cases in the third quarter of the year, raising concerns over stigma, delayed treatment and low awareness.
Figures from the National AIDS Council show more than 2,500 new STI cases were reported between July and September, up from about 1,400 cases in the second quarter. In the first quarter, 2,194 new infections were recorded, pointing to continued transmission throughout the year.
Bulawayo NAC programmes officer Douglas Moyo said the surge highlights persistent barriers to prevention and early care.
“In the first quarter of the year, we recorded 2 194 new STI infections. In the second quarter, the curve dropped a bit to 1 400 new STI clients, and in the third quarter it shot up to over 2 500. Health experts weighed in saying some of the factors fuelling the increase of STIs include stigma and lack of awareness,” Moyo said.
Medical professionals say fear of discrimination remains a major factor discouraging people from seeking testing and treatment. Obstetrician and gynaecologist Vimbai Moyana Muguto said social attitudes continue to drive infections underground.
“Stigma plays a big role in the surge of these infections. People are afraid of being discriminated against. There is a lot of stigmatisation that comes with HIV or STIs. For example, you will find that if a couple is trying to get married and they go for testing, and one is found to be HIV positive. They start thinking that if I disclose to my partner, they will not accept me anymore,” she said.
The National AIDS Council said that in responding to the 2,539 new STI cases recorded during the quarter, more than 300 contacts were traced and treated. Health experts say contact tracing is key to breaking transmission chains and preventing long-term complications.
Authorities are urging stronger community education campaigns, reduced stigma and improved access to sexual health services as Zimbabwe works toward its target of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
