HIV Transmission Pattern in Central Java Shifts to Homosexual Relations

Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 16:04 WIB | By Fitriyan Zamzami | Source: Republika | Social Policy

The Head of the Central Java Provincial Health Office, Zulfachmi Wahab, has revealed that there is currently a change in the pattern of HIV transmission in Central Java. Newly recorded cases frequently emerge from homosexual practitioners.

Zulfachmi stated that, in general, the number of HIV cases in Central Java has experienced a decline from 2024 to 2025. “The numbers are actually decreasing. However, there is a change in the transmission pattern, which previously was sexual, but has shifted to men who have sex with men (MSM),” he said on Friday (26/06/2026).

“If we compare the numbers from 2024 to 2025, and then 2025 compared to 2026, the trend is actually declining. It is just a shift in the transmission pattern,” Zulfachmi added.

According to him, the trend of shifting transmission patterns involving MSM has been occurring for at least the last five years. “So, current HIV cases are prevalent among men. Previously, it was housewives being infected by their husbands. Now, it is men who have sex with men,” he said.

Based on data from BPS Central Java, the number of new HIV/AIDS cases in the province reached 6,509 cases. Meanwhile, in 2025, 6,222 cases were recorded. As for 2026, the Central Java Health Office has recorded hundreds of new HIV cases.

“Semarang City is the region with the highest number of new HIV cases, with 225 cases. This is followed by Banyumas with 107 cases, and Solo City with 104 cases. This covers the period from January to May 2026,” said Zulfachmi.

Zulfachmi explained that the prevention of HIV transmission can be achieved by maintaining certain lifestyle patterns. “There is what we call A, B, C, D, E. A stands for Abstinence, do not have sex. B is to be faithful, strengthen your relationship with God. C is the use of condoms. D means avoiding drugs. E is to limit the use of shared medical equipment,” he said.

He reminded that there is currently no cure for HIV. “Therefore, our treatment involves providing antivirals to strengthen the immune system. We provide antiretroviral drugs for life. Thus, there is no treatment that can provide a total cure,” Zulfachmi concluded.