There is a likelihood that HIV/AIDS statistics in the country will soar in the following year. The National Aids Council Secretariat-Acting Director Mr. Tony Lupiwa said despite the lack of available statistics on the new cases of HIV/AIDs after the national general elections, they are expecting to see an increase by 2023. PNG has recorded increases in new cases of the deadly virus in the past election years and this year's election is no exception. “This because the virus takes up to 6 months to start inhabiting the body and begin destroying it. By then, people will be visiting clinics and other testing centres to get tested hence we will start collecting the numbers," said Mr. Lupiwa. The Secretariat reports that behavioral patterns among the general public during elections are unstable due to the unsafe election practices voters are involved in especially around huge gatherings at campaigns, rallies, and other election-related activities. Lupiwa said the secretariat can do as much as they can but with financial limitations, they are working within their budget allocations. He said they were only able to carry out awareness in the Highlands region, Madang & Morobe Province. “We are expecting to see an increase of cases from other provinces by next year, said Mr. Lupiwa.” On average, a total of ten infections are recorded per day along with two deaths per day.