144 New HIV Cases Detected in Cirebon, Mostly Among Productive Age Group

The Cirebon District Health Office (Dinkes) in West Java, Indonesia, has identified 144 new HIV cases between January and June 2026. These findings resulted from screening programmes conducted among the community during the first semester of this year.

The productive age group represents the largest portion of these findings. Mona Isabella Saragih, Head of the Disease Prevention and Control Division at the Cirebon District Health Office, stated that the majority of cases were found in individuals aged 25 to 49.

“The HIV findings in the first semester of 202<0xC2>6 were most prevalent among the 25 to 49 age group,” Mona said in Cirebon on Wednesday, 2 September 2026.

Within this age group, 77 cases were recorded in men, while 18 cases were recorded in women.

The Cirebon District Health Office also noted cases within several specific groups and conditions targeted during the screenings. Of the 144 new findings, 42 cases were found among men who have sex with men (MSM), five cases among transgender individuals, five cases among female sex workers, and one case among prison inmates.

Additionally, screenings identified four cases among pregnant women and 38 cases among tuberculosis (TB) patients.

Meanwhile, the remaining 49 cases originated from categories including prospective brides, the general public, patients outside specific populations, and individuals undergoing screenings prior to surgical procedures.

HIV Findings Do Not Automatically Signify Increased Transmission

Despite the 144 new findings in the first six months of 2026, the Cirebon District Health Office stated that these figures do not indicate a significant increase compared to previous years. In 2025, 297 cases were recorded, while in 2024, the number of findings reached 464 cases.

“The discovery of cases does not always mean an increase in transmission, as more extensive screening allows more people living with HIV to be identified in the early stages,” she said.

According to the Health Office, expanding screening is a vital effort to detect HIV as early as possible. With early detection, patients can immediately receive appropriate support and treatment.

Throughout 2026, the Cirebon District Health Office aims to conduct HIV screenings for approximately 52,000 people from key and special populations. As of the first semester of 2026, the realisation of these screenings has reached approximately 47 per cent of the target.