Northwest lower Michigan is seeing an increase in the number HIV cases.
The Health Department of Northwest Michigan said in a statement that cases in Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet, Otsego, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Benzie, Leelanau, Manistee, Wexford, and Missaukee counties have more than doubled since data was last collected in 2018.
Dr. Josh Meyerson is the medical director for the Health Department. He says demographic changes in the region are likely contributing to the boost in cases.
"Almost 80% of these new diagnoses were in residents over 30 years of age, and over half over the age of 40...Traditionally, people might think of of it being more of an issue in younger groups, but at least up here we're seeing risks throughout that adult age span," Dr. Meyerson said.
He added lack of awareness and lack of testing could also be playing a role in the rise of cases.
Dr. Meyerson said using contraceptives and certain medications can help reduce the risk of infection.
