THE Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday said it does not have any data on the number of inmates getting infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency virus (AIDS).
According to DOH Spokesman Dr. Eric Tayag, they cannot yet confirm the claims made by Public Attorney's Office (PAO) chief Persida Acosta that about one to three inmates have HIV/AIDS.
“Wala kaming data on that. These findings require verification,” said Tayag.
He said it also has to be determined if the HIV/AIDS were acquired while the inmates are already detained or prior to it.
“AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection. Therefore, these reported cases may have been infected even prior to their entry in prisons,” said Tayag.
Still, the health official admitted that being inside cramped jail cells would definitely make inmates vulnerable to communicable diseases, including HIV, mainly due to their proximity to one another.
“Men in prison are vulnerable to HIV but also to other health risks, such as tuberculosis,” said Tayag.
To recall, Acosta had claimed that about one to three inmates in every jail cell are affected by HIV/AIDS.
Acosta said the alleged spread of the virus is mainly due to the male inmates’ “biological needs” as many are longing for their wives.
But whether there is an increase increase of HIV cases inside jail cells, Tayag said it is important that HIV services are readily available to inmates.
“There must be regular outreach missions for HIV testing, condom distribution, and provision of antiretroviral drugs,” he said.
Tayag said they are hoping to secure the help of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in addressing the health problems of inmates. (HDT/Sunnex)