South Central Public Health Reports Sharp Increase in HIV, AIDS Cases
TWIN FALLS, Idaho — Health officials in South Central Idaho are raising concerns after a notable surge in reported HIV and AIDS cases across the region in 2025. The South Central Public Health District (SCPHD) says the numbers have tripled compared to the previous year.
- In 2024, the region saw 5 cases of HIV and 1 case of AIDS.
- As of November 2025, that figure has grown to 15 HIV cases and 9 AIDS cases.
The data covers eight counties: Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls.
Understanding HIV and Who It Affects Most
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) weakens the immune system by targeting white blood cells, making the body vulnerable to infections. If untreated, it can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a condition that severely impairs immune function.
While HIV can affect anyone, CDC data shows that over 65% of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S. are among men who have sex with men (MSM). Heterosexual transmission accounts for a much smaller percentage, especially among individuals in monogamous relationships.
Key Risk Factors Include:
- High number of sexual partners
- Unprotected sex
- Injection drug use with shared needles
According to the CDC:
- The average lifetime risk of HIV for Americans is less than 1 in 120, but the risk increases significantly for individuals with multiple partners or high-risk behaviors.
- Women make up just 19% of new diagnoses, with the majority infected through heterosexual contact with high-risk male partners.
Health Officials Emphasize Early Detection and Treatment
“HIV is now a manageable condition with treatment, but undiagnosed or untreated cases can still progress to AIDS,” said Jacob Ward, an epidemiologist with SCPHD. “Early testing is critical.”
Initial HIV symptoms may resemble the flu within weeks of infection—or may go unnoticed entirely. The virus remains lifelong, though medical advancements allow most patients to live long, healthy lives when properly treated.
Free HIV Screenings Offered in December
To promote early detection, SCPHD will provide free, full-day HIV screenings:
- Twin Falls Office – December 4
- Jerome Office – December 9
Spanish-language services will also be available.
Preventing Infection
Health experts encourage the following for reducing HIV risk:
- Use condoms consistently and correctly
- Avoid sharing needles
- Get tested regularly, especially after new sexual encounters
- Discuss risk factors with healthcare providers
While transmission is serious, infection is difficult without direct exposure to blood or sexual fluids, making general public transmission concerns minimal.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
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