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Forty-four HIV infections have been recorded in the first half of this year in the Sekyere South District of Ashanti. The figure is double the 22 cases recorded in the area in the whole of last year. Twenty- seven of the infected, representing 61 per cent, are females whilst 17 are males. But less than half of the patients are receiving treatment at various health facilities in the district. Health officials say the figure is not alarming compared to the national prevalence rate, but they are concerned a high number of women aged between 25 and 29 years topped the list of highly infected persons in the area with 7 cases. Men aged between 35 and 39 years constitute the highest number of males infected in the male category, with children aged less than 10 years following with 3 cases. District Health Director, Dr. Abora Addo who revealed this at a half year review at Agona, noted more people now avail themselves for testing with ongoing �Know-your-status� voluntary testing campaign drive. It is however not clear why only 20 out of the reported forty-four new cases are receiving treatment. Dr. Addo says persons tested positive but are in doubt, are given the opportunity to see a second opinion by undergoing a second test. Infected residents can now access anti-retroviral drugs at nearby Asamang SDA Hospital. According to Dr. Addo, though the figures are not high, they present a disturbing picture to health officials in the area. He says the health directorate will continue its education drive with focusing more on voluntary testing by all residents.