A Gender-Based Analysis of HIV/AIDS in Belize 

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a serious public health concern in Belize, where the total number of HIV infections reported between 1986 and 2008 reached 4,680 in a population of only 322,000 [1]. There is growing recognition that HIV programs in Belize must identify, monitor, and respond to the distinct needs of men, women, boys and girls. A gendered approach is seen as one of the most effective strategies for reducing vulnerabilities to HIV infection, and enhancing individual and community capacities for coping with the consequences of HIV [2].

In this report, we present a Gender-Based Analysis (GBA) of HIV/AIDS in Belize. Added analysis of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and gender-based violence (GBV) is provided, as they affect biological risks and social vulnerabilities and help inform the GBA of HIV/AIDS. The objective is to explore current epidemiological patterns and trends, access to testing and treatment, health-related outcomes, and various risk factors associated with contracting HIV/AIDS among men, women, boys and girls living in Belize.

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 A Gender-Based Analysis of HIV/AIDS in Belize (1.01 MB)

9 July 2010 - Since the start of this year, the Ministry of Health has received 348 reports of clinical cases of Classical Dengue Fever, 30 of which have been laboratory confirmed at the Central Medical Laboratory and 42 diagnosed as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever. The majority of these cases have been identified in the Cayo (142 cases) and Belize districts (167 cases).