Northern Bahr al Ghazal’s rate of HIV infections has risen steadily compared to previous years, a government official announced.

According to previous surveys, 03% was found as the level of the infection in the area.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Friday, Garang Kuol Malual, director of HIV/AIDS at Aweil state ministry of health said the infection rate has dramatically increased compared to previous years.

He called on local residents to go for testing saying citizens’ turnout was poor at counseling and testing centers in the state.