HIV Cases Rise In Minnesota In 2012
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota health officials say the number of HIV cases reported to the state increased 8 percent in 2012 compared to the previous year.
The Department of Health says 315 new cases of the virus that causes AIDS were reported last year, compared to 292 new cases in 2011.
Health commissioner Dr. Ed Ehlinger says higher HIV infection rates are seen in communities with social disadvantages in employment, education, income and housing. Ehlinger says lower employment and income limits access to health insurance and quality health care.
Since the health department began tracking AIDS cases in 1982 and HIV infections in 1985, more than 10,000 such cases have been reported. Health officials estimate there are about 7,500 people living with HIV in Minnesota.
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