Cluster of HIV Infections Attributed to Unsafe Injection Practices — Cambodia, December 1, 2014–February 28, 2015

• DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6506a2
• Publication Date: 2016-02-17T15:19:03Z
• Authors: Mean Chhi Vun; Romeo R. Galang; Masami Fujita; William Killam; Runa Gokhale; John Pitman; Dejana Selenic; Sovatha Mam; Chandara Mom; Didier Fontenille; Francois Rouet; Saphonn Vonthanak
• Keywords: Male; Infant; HIV Infections; Middle Aged; Disease Outbreaks; Injections; 3. Good health; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Cluster Analysis; Humans; Female; Cambodia; Child; Aged

In December 2014, local health authorities in Battambang province northwest Cambodia reported 30 cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection a rural commune (district subdivision) where only four had been during the preceding year. The majority occurred residents Roka commune. Cambodian National Center for HIV/AIDS (acquired syndrome), Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (NCHADS) investigated outbreak collaboration with University Health Sciences Phnom Penh members Cluster Investigation Team. By February 28, 2015, NCHADS confirmed 242 HIV among 8,893 residents, an rate 2.7%. Molecular investigation strains present this indicated that were linked to single strain spread quickly within community. An case-control study identified medical injections infusions as most likely modes transmission. response outbreak, Government has taken measures encourage safe injection practices by licensed professionals, ban unlicensed practitioners, increase capacity testing counseling, expand access treatment province. Measures reduce demand unnecessary provision unsafe are needed. Estimates national incidence prevalence might need be adjusted account risk exposure.