Kuwait has recently deported over 100 expatriates diagnosed with AIDS as part of its efforts to control the spread of the virus. Dr. Fahd Al-Ghamlas, the Director of Kuwait’s Public Health Department, confirmed this action following an epidemiological investigation into 165 cases among Kuwaiti nationals and more than 100 cases among residents. This initiative was part of broader public health efforts to ensure the safety of the community.
The country’s Health Minister, Ahmad Al-Awadhi, highlighted Kuwait’s progress in addressing AIDS, pointing to the achievement of the 90/90/90 target, where 90% of people living with HIV are diagnosed, 90% are aware of their health status, and 90% are receiving effective treatment. The goal is to achieve the 95/95/95 target by 2025.
Dr. Al-Ghamlas also shared that Kuwait’s 2023 AIDS report had been submitted to the World Health Organization, demonstrating transparency in the country’s healthcare efforts. Additionally, over 2,000 AIDS-free certificates have been issued through public health laboratories.
However, alongside treatment and prevention efforts, Kuwait’s public health measures also include addressing the stigma surrounding AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Dr. Al-Awadhi emphasized the importance of collective societal action, calling on families, schools, and social institutions to engage in awareness initiatives to fight misinformation and promote prevention. The annual conference on AIDS and venereal diseases also featured discussions on new diagnostic tools, antiviral treatments, and global prevention strategies, with special workshops for educators and religious leaders to engage young people in prevention efforts.
