HIV Transmission Pattern in Central Java Shifts to Homosexual Relations

The Head of the Central Java Provincial Health Office, Zulfachmi Wahab, has revealed a shift in the pattern of HIV transmission in the region, with new cases increasingly emerging among homosexual men. He stated that while the overall number of HIV cases in Central Java declined from 2024 to 2025, the pattern of transmission has changed from sexual transmission to men who have sex with men (MSM). “The numbers are decreasing. But there is a shift in the transmission pattern,” he said on Friday (26/6/2026). He added that this trend involving MSM has been occurring for at least the last five years. “So now, HIV cases are mostly among men. Previously, it was housewives infected by their husbands. Now it is men who have sex with men,” he said. According to data from the Central Java Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the number of new HIV/AIDS cases in the province reached 6,509 cases in 2024, compared to 6,222 cases recorded in 2025. Throughout 2026, the Central Java Health Office has already recorded hundreds of new HIV cases. “Semarang City has the highest number of new HIV cases with 225 cases. Then Banyumas with 107 cases, and Solo City with 104 cases. This is from January to May 2026,” Zulfachmi said. He outlined prevention measures using the A, B, C, D, E approach: A for Absen (abstinence), B for Be faithful (strengthening one’s relationship with God), C for using Condoms, D for avoiding Drugs, and E for limiting the use of unsterile medical equipment. He also reminded the public that there is currently no cure for HIV. “Treatment involves providing antivirals to strengthen the immune system. We provide lifelong antiretroviral medication. There is no treatment that can completely cure it yet,” Zulfachmi said.