HIV cases up in Minn. for first time in two years

A new report from the Minnesota Department of Health shows the number of HIV infections in Minnesota increased 8 percent last year after two years of decline, the Pioneer Press reports.

State health officials say there were 315 reported HIV/AIDS cases in 2012, compared to 292 new cases the previous year.

More than 80 percent of the new HIV cases were concentrated within the Twin Cities metro area, but increases were seen in all geographical regions except the suburbs

"Higher HIV infection rates are seen among our communities experiencing social disadvantages with regard to employment, quality education, income and housing," Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Ed Ehlinger said in a statement. "Lower employment and income limits access to health insurance and quality health care, including HIV prevention education, testing, treatment and on-going care services."

The state health department says there are roughly 7,500 people with HIV living in Minnesota

Meanwhile, Minnesota Daily says a team of University of Minnesota physicians are attempting a groundbreaking transplant Tuesday to cure a 6-year-old boy of HIV and leukemia.