HIV/AIDS in Sri Lanka: The Problem and the Response

Abstract

Sri Lanka is considered a low-prevalence country with an estimated adult HIV prevalence of 0.07 per cent. The predominant mode of HIV transmission is through unsafe heterosexual sex. Vulnerable groups include young people, internally displaced persons and migrants from rural to urban centres. Urbanisation and temporary migration out of the country constitute other factors of HIV transmission. The national response to HIV has included targeting education programmes to young people and vulnerable groups, early treatment of sexually-transmitted diseases, blood safety and improving the provision of care. Multisectoral collaboration, ensuring access to condoms and voluntary counselling and testing besides IEC activities integrated with health services remain important priorities for the future.