![Photo taken on Nov.6, 2019 shows a billboard advertising HIV prevention, in Juba, capital of South Sudan. [Xinhua/Gale Julius]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/3BBE9939-332D-4D53-AEFB-4540891B27ED.jpeg?resize=678%2C452&quality=89&ssl=1)
Ajak Mach, director for HIV/AIDS at the state Ministry of Health, said the survey was carried out in selected health facilities, including Bor State Hospital, Pariak, Kolnyang, Akobo, Poktap, Duk Lost Boys, and Twic East facilities.
“Each year, we conduct studies over a four-month period using data from internal health facilities,” Mach told Sudans Post on Friday.
Mach attributed the decline to increased awareness campaigns promoting HIV prevention. He urged residents to get tested to know their HIV status and seek treatment if necessary.
“HIV/AIDS is like any other disease. It’s often said everyone is positive until confirmed otherwise through testing. Testing is key to staying safe,” he said.
He also encouraged those living with the virus to adhere to their medication to manage their health effectively.
“If you take the prescribed drugs, you can live like anyone else. However, if you don’t, your viral load will increase, affecting your health,” he said. “People think HIV is a death sentence, but it isn’t if you’re on treatment.”
