ST. PAUL, MN (KDAL) – Despite an overall reduction in sexually transmitted disease (STD) and HIV/AIDS in the state, data released by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) shows an HIV outbreak in the Duluth area in 2020.
An HIV outbreak was also declared in the Twin Cities area.
New infections in the outbreaks primarily affect people using injection drugs or sharing needles, experiencing homelessness, men who have sex with men and those exchanging sex for income and needed items.
Minnesota Department of Health Medical Director Dr. Ruth Lynfield says prevention of HIV includes consistent condom use and a daily preventative pill.
The MDH funds community based programs that provide STD and HIV services and prevention resources.
The programs offer prevention education, testing services and support for those needing care and sterile syringe access.
The report shows over two-thirds of new HIV cases affect communities of color and overall in Minnesota, STD’s and HIV’s declined by 2 percent.
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