BEHOLD! Over 3,000 people infected with HIV in Southeast state in 10 months

The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has disclosed that 3,138 individuals tested positive for HIV out of 257,953 screened between January and October 2024.

This reflects a 1.2% positivity rate over the 10-month period.

Dr. Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health in Anambra, shared these statistics during a media briefing in Awka on Thursday, in observance of World AIDS Day, celebrated globally every December 1st since 1988.

This year’s World AIDS Day theme is: ‘Take the Rights Path, Sustain HIV Response, Stop HIV Among Children to End AIDS in Nigeria by 2030.’

Expansion of comprehensive HIV services
Obidike highlighted the state’s progress in combating HIV/AIDS, noting the expansion of comprehensive services to 175 healthcare facilities across Anambra.

He stated, “Between January and October 2024, 257,953 individuals were tested for HIV, with 3,138 (1.2%) testing positive.

“Notably, 99% of those diagnosed were successfully linked to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Currently, 49,067 individuals living with HIV are receiving antiretroviral treatment.”

As part of its prevention efforts, the state, with support from partners, distributed 1,406,744 condoms and 26,640 lubricants to promote safe practices among key populations and the general public.

“These distributions underline the state and its partners’ commitment to mitigating transmission risks and supporting comprehensive prevention strategies,” he said.

The Commissioner emphasized the critical role of the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program in reducing pediatric HIV cases in Anambra State.

Obidike revealed that spectrum projections for 2024 estimated 5,167 pregnant women in the state required PMTCT services.

“Thanks to the efforts of mentor mothers and community partners, 56,199 antenatal attendees were tested for HIV, resulting in the identification of 560 HIV-positive pregnant women (including known and new cases). All were successfully linked to care,” he stated.

He also highlighted the adoption of advanced diagnostics, such as m-PIMA machines for Early Infant Diagnosis, which have enhanced the testing and care of HIV-exposed infants, ensuring healthier outcomes for mothers and their babies.

Additionally, Obidike noted that the state government has domesticated the HIV Anti-Discrimination Act to safeguard the rights of People Living with HIV, combat stigma, and address gender-based violence.
“The state remains committed to achieving health equity and an AIDS-free future for all residents,” he affirmed.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, despite progress in prevention, treatment, and awareness efforts.

Nigeria has the second-largest HIV epidemic globally. According to UNAIDS, the national HIV prevalence rate is around 1.3%, with regional variations.

Funding gaps, healthcare infrastructure, and social factors like poverty and gender inequality hinder progress.

Strengthening community-based interventions and addressing these systemic challenges are critical.

Nairametric