Batam, Indonesia – The Health Office (Dinkes) of Batam City, Riau Islands, has reported 61 positive cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) through screening conducted since the beginning of 2025. This revelation underscores the ongoing efforts to combat the spread of HIV in the region.

According to a report in January, the Dinkes found a total of 61 positive HIV cases, with 47 men and 14 women. These findings came from a screening of 803 individuals, as stated by the Head of Batam Health Office, Didi Kusmarjadi, in a recent interview.

“According to reports in January, we found a total of 61 positive HIV cases, with 47 men and 14 women. This is the findings of 803 screening from screening,”

Didi Kusmarjadi, Head of Batam Health Office

Kusmarjadi highlighted that the target for screening in 2025 is set at 15,868 people, an increase from the 15,060 people targeted in 2024. This escalation in screening targets reflects a concerted effort to intensify early detection and intervention strategies.

“The target screening is increasing, meaning that early detection efforts are increasingly intensified this year. With more and more people who undergo screening, handling can also be done faster,”

Didi Kusmarjadi, Head of Batam Health Office

The HIV cases identified in early 2025 span various age groups, with 11 cases found in the 20-24 age group, 41 cases in the 25-49 age group, seven cases in the over-50 age group, and two cases in the 15-19 age group. This data highlights the importance of targeted screening and prevention efforts across all demographics.

The Batam Health Office continues to implement programs aimed at reducing HIV/AIDS cases, including Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (Prep) and antiretroviral (ARV) therapy. Prep is a preventive medication that offers maximum protection against HIV transmission after seven days of use for anal sex and 20 days for vaginal sex and injection drug use. It is primarily given to individuals at high risk, such as women of sex workers (WPS) and injecting drug users (penasun).

ARV therapy, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in inhibiting the reproduction of the HIV virus and preventing a decline in the health of individuals with HIV/AIDS. Regular and disciplined use of ARV drugs is recommended to manage the virus effectively.

“With the Prep and ARV programs, the number of HIV cases can be reduced. The most important thing is the more screening is done, the faster the handling can be given,”

Didi Kusmarjadi, Head of Batam Health Office

In the United States, similar strategies are employed to combat HIV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends regular HIV testing for individuals at high risk, such as men who have sex with men, injection drug users, and sex workers. The CDC also promotes the use of Prep for high-risk individuals and emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment.

For instance, in New York City, the “Ending the Epidemic” initiative has been successful in reducing HIV transmission rates by 86% since 2001. This initiative focuses on expanding access to HIV testing, Prep, and ARV therapy, as well as providing comprehensive support services for individuals living with HIV.

In contrast, some critics argue that increased screening and treatment alone are not sufficient to address the root causes of HIV transmission, such as poverty, lack of education, and stigma. They advocate for a more holistic approach that includes social and economic interventions to address these underlying issues.

Despite these counterarguments, the success of programs like those in Batam and New York City demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted screening, prevention, and treatment strategies. By continuing to invest in these efforts and addressing the broader social determinants of health, communities can make significant strides in reducing HIV transmission and improving the lives of those affected.