The Iraqi Medical Union has raised concerns over the rising number of HIV/AIDS cases in Iraq, surpassing 2,600, with 470 reported deaths in recent years.
Citing unlicensed beauty centers as a significant source of disease transmission, the union has cautioned against visiting such establishments.
Dr. Majid Shangali, head of the Health and Environment Committee in the Iraqi parliament, highlighted the gravity of the situation, revealing that cases of newborns contracting HIV have been documented, either through mother-to-child transmission or blood transfusions.
Dr. Safa Shabr, president of the Iraqi Medical Union, stressed the importance of early treatment for AIDS, underscoring that advanced symptoms typically manifest after a decade or more.
He also noted the progress in medical treatment, enabling AIDS patients to integrate into society with reduced risk of transmission.
Expressing concerns over public health, the union head issued a stern warning against patronizing unlicensed beauty centers, attributing them, along with tattoos, as potential avenues for contracting AIDS.
