More than half of HIV-positive individuals in Barishal are students, official reports

According to the ART centre, 3,130 people have been tested for HIV from October 2024 to Sept 30, 2025

Over half of the HIV-positive individuals identified in Barishal are students, according to Councillor Jasim Uddin of the ART centre at Barishal Sher e Bangla Medical College Hospital.

Data from the centre shows that between October 2024 and Sept 30, 2025, a total of 3,130 people came for HIV testing. Among them, 20 tested positive, including 11 students. The remainder includes three expatriates and six individuals from different local professions, one of whom is transgender.

The affected students are aged 17 to 28, spanning HSC to Master’s levels, with many residing in Barishal temporarily while coming from other districts.

Councillor Jasim said, “All affected students are homosexual. They are under medical supervision, receiving medication and follow-up care. Intensive counselling is provided to prevent them from coming into contact with others.”

He urged parents to be vigilant, noting that some households accommodate five to seven students in a single room.

“It is essential to monitor where children live, their friends, and their activities,” he said.

Symptoms observed among HIV-positive individuals include excessive dryness, anaemia, headaches, and persistent diarrhoea. Most cases were detected following medical examinations prompted by these symptoms rather than voluntary testing.

Jasim added, “Many of those who had sexual contact with the affected individuals have not yet been tested. The actual number of cases may rise.”

Brig Gen Moshiul Munir, director of Barishal Sher e Bangla Medical College Hospital, emphasised the need for teachers and parents to take strict precautions to prevent a further rise in cases.