New HIV
infections hit high in Japan

The numbers of new infections of HIV and AIDS patients in Japan hit record highs in 2006, the Health Ministry said Wednesday, underscoring concerns over spreading infections.

The number of new HIV infections last year was 914, up nearly 10% from 2005, according to preliminary data released by the ministry's AIDS Surveillance Committee. The number of those who developed AIDS in 2006 was 390, up 6.3% from the year before. Both numbers were a record high since the ministry began keeping track in 1985.

The report did not provide analysis on why the numbers are increasing. Ministry official Kozo Akino said while actual infections may be spreading, the surge in the number of infections is also a result of more people are getting tested for HIV antibodies. (AP)