World AIDS Day 2024 Highlights Progress and Challenges in Comb
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has successfully placed 61,384 individuals living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) on treatment, surpassing the projected number by 223%, according to Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment Secretariat.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja to commemorate World AIDS Day 2024, Dr. Fasawe, represented by Dr. Olubenga Bello, Director-General of the Hospital Management Board, highlighted the theme, “Take the Right Path: Sustain HIV Response, Stop HIV Among Children.” The theme underscores the need to address pediatric HIV while protecting the rights of those affected.
Progress in the FCT
With an HIV prevalence rate of 1.4%, slightly above the national average of 1.3%, the FCT has been proactive in expanding and decentralizing care services to reach underserved populations. Key achievements include:
- Comprehensive Service Points: A network of 122 service delivery points across six Area Councils provides antiretroviral therapy (ART).
- Decentralized Care: An additional 285 conventional spoke sites and 37 unconventional community-based care locations ensure accessibility.
- Pediatric Care: Of the individuals on treatment, 1,048 are children, representing 3.8% of those receiving life-saving ART.
Pediatric HIV Interventions
The FCT has introduced unique programs to combat pediatric HIV, including:
- Mentor Mothers: Women trained to guide pregnant mothers through prevention and care pathways.
- Training for Caregivers: Traditional birth attendants are educated on facility births, early infant diagnosis, and prophylaxis within 72 hours of life.
- Community Initiatives: Programs like the Mothers’ Love Party and the AP3 Initiative enhance support for the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT).
HIV Prevention and Partnerships
The FCT has expanded access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals at risk of HIV. These advancements are supported by strong partnerships with organizations like the National AIDS and STI Control Programme, the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, and AIDS Healthcare Foundation.
“Together, we have prioritized key populations, women, children, and vulnerable groups, ensuring that every person diagnosed with HIV receives the care, dignity, and support they deserve,” said Fasawe.
Looking Forward
While significant progress has been made, Dr. Fasawe emphasized the ongoing challenge of pediatric HIV in Nigeria. Efforts will continue to identify cases, link individuals to care, and prevent new infections. The FCTA also remains committed to ending stigma and discrimination, which hinder access to care.
Commemorative Activities
World AIDS Day activities will conclude with a road walk on Tuesday, starting from Government Secondary School, Garki, to the Old Parade Ground in Area 10, Garki. The event aims to raise awareness and renew public commitment to combating HIV/AIDS.
ating HIV/AIDS
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