Wisconsin HIV infections up

New HIV infections in Wisconsin hit a six-year high in 2002, up 16% over 2001 levels, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. The total number of new cases in 2002 was 390, up from 336 in 2001. Most of Wisconsin's new HIV infections in 2002 were among minorities. Although minorities make up only 12% of Wisconsin's population, they accounted for 54% of the state's new HIV infections last year. State health officials worry that the rise in the rate of infections suggests that unprotected sex and other high-risk behaviors are on the increase. "It's a significant concern," said James Vergeront, who heads the state's HIV/AIDS program.