Host communities blame refugees for the spread of HIV/AIDS, according to a survey by the UNHCR. "Such sentiments are held not only by local people, but by politicians, some media and even humanitarian workers," said the UNHCR commissioner, also noting the direct correlation between the increase in the number of HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa, and hostility towards refugees. However, evidence suggests that HIV infection rates among refugees are lower than those in host communities.