Epidemiological Characteristics of Newly-Reported HIV Cases Among Youth Aged 15-24 Years - China, 2010-2019

China CDC Wkly. 2020 Nov 27;2(48):913-916. doi: 10.46234/ccdcw2020.249.

Abstract

What is already known about this topic?: An estimated 1,400 new cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) occur every day among youths globally. However, HIV distribution among youth aged 15-24 years in China has not been researched extensively.

What is added by this report?: Between 2010 and 2019, a total of 141,557 HIV cases among the group aged 15-24 years were reported in China with a male to female ratio at 4.07∶1. The main route of HIV transmission was unprotected sex among men who have sex with men (MSM), and heterosexual transmission for females.

What are the implications for public health practice?: Effective HIV control and prevention measures need to target youth aged 15-24 years, especially among MSM. Sexual health education and HIV prevention should start from primary and secondary school levels.