Twenty-two cases of HIV infection reported last year making it the worst year since 1996 and statistics indicate that "we must be very concerned," according to Health Minister Nelson Bascome.

Outlining the situation as he heralded June as HIV awareness month, Mr. Bascome told the House of Assembly that 710 people have been reported with HIV over the past 27 years.

Of those, 540 cases progressed to AIDS and 423 people died. It is estimated that there are more than 200 people in Bermuda living with diagnosed HIVinfection.

The worst year on record was 1987, when 64 cases were reported. A steady decline was seen over the next 15 years, but the picture appears to be worsening again.

"Recent years have seen an increase in HIV incidence. There were eight cases reported in 2002, the lowest number of cases since the beginning of the epidemic, compared to 22 cases reported in 2008, the highest number of cases since 1996," revealed Mr. Bascome.

However, the incidence of full-blown AIDS has declined since a peak of 49 cases in 1995, with just seven cases reported last year.

"This is expected as there tends to be a seven to ten year lag between HIV incidence and AIDS incidence, mostly due to the natural progression of the disease," explained the Minister.

"Deaths among persons with HIV/AIDs have also declined since the 1990s when there was an average of 24 deaths per year. The last five years have seen ten or fewer deaths per year. The general decline in AIDS incidence and deaths is likely due to advancement and availability of care, treatment and support."

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV.)HIV weakens the body's natural defences, making the person more susceptible to infections. AIDS occurs when an HIV-infected person becomes ill with an AIDS-defining illness.

The good news, said the Minister on Friday, was that HIV screening of all pregnant women in Bermuda has shown a zero percent prevalence. Promotion of counselling and testing, together with access to therapy and medications have significantly improved the quality of life for sufferers.

However, he warned:"We must remain vigilant. We must still be concerned. No-one else has to become infected with HIV.I hope that all of Bermuda will take time to support these efforts."

Among steps taken to promote prevention are a "know your status get tested" campaign, which is being promoted during AIDS awareness month.

Other planned events include free showings of the AIDS-themed movies Philadelphia and Beat the Drum. Philadelphia plays at the Youth Library in Hamilton on Thursday June 18 at 2 p.m., with Beat the Drum the following Thursday at the same time. A HIV testing day will be held at Hamilton Health Centre on Monday June 29 between 8.30 a.m and 4.pm.

More information about HIV and AIDS can be found on the Allan Vincent Smith Foundation website at www.avsf.bm.