Young Jamaicans deserve the truth about HIV

THE EDITOR, Madam:

In a period of increased transparency and acceptance, coupled with unlimited access to the digital world, Gen Zs have been exposed to a plethora of information on relationships and sex. However, this freedom comes with risks.

According to UNAIDS (2024), there are 26,000 Jamaicans living with HIV, with an estimated 1,500 new infections annually; approximately 500 of these occur among young people aged 15–24 years old.

Of concern, is that “nearly 20 per cent of Jamaicans living with HIV are still unaware of their status”. This holds particular risk for young people, who are navigating new sexual experiences, peer pressure, and a digital world full of misinformation.

Data gathered from the Jamaica HIV Strategic Plan (2020-2025); acknowledges that young women and adolescent girls are especially vulnerable to contracting HIV, when compared to findings from the Jamaica Country Operational Plan (COP) Report (2023), which highlights that young men are less likely to get tested or seek healthcare. These gaps are not just medical, but also social, structural, and tied to shame and outdated gender norms.

At the Jamaican Network of Seropositives (JN+), an NGO that advocates for the rights and concerns of people living with HIV, we believe that young people have the right to comprehensive and judgement-free access to sexual health services. Getting tested should be as normal as getting a routine check-up. Knowing your HIV status, therefore, should be seen not as a threat, but as an act of self-respect and sexual autonomy.M

Our young people deserve support and the right to take control of their sexual health. We call on the Ministry of Education and Youth, policymakers, school administrators, parents, and guardians to help normalise routine HIV education and screening among sexually active young Jamaicans, promote open dialogue in safe spaces, and make comprehensive sexual health education accessible, relevant, and youth-driven across institutions and other like settings where young people frequent.

OMAR MORGAN

Policy and odvocacy officer

Jamaican Network of

Seropositives