The first evidence of HIV infection in Ethiopia was found in 1984, while the first AIDS cases were reported from hospitals in Addis Ababa in 1986. By September 1999, there was a cumulative of 82,268 cases reported by health institutions throughout the country. At a recent event, a speaker illustrated this as two people in every full mini-bus taxi. Documented risk factors for HIV sexual transmission include sex with multiple partners, commercial sex, extramarital sex, non-faithful partnership, and sexually transmitted diseases. In Bahr Dar, where the highest prevalence was recorded, 69.4 percent of commercial sex workers were infected.
Statistical data is hard to come by, as the above reasons for disparities in reporting note.
However, one of the more reliably recorded population groups is said to be pregnant women, particularly as natal care slowly but surely improves. Table 1, below, demonstrates trends of HIV among ante-natal in selected areas. The few sero-epidemic logical studies that have been carried out in the country, including the above, indicate that the trend of infection is on the rise across the country. This office was responsible for directing and coordinating the implementation of AIDS prevention and control efforts. The initial objectives of the prevention and control efforts were to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with HIV infection and to provide care and support for those affected and infected.