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Lagos-based pharmacist and health researcher, Oluwakorede Adedeji has called for more public awareness of the HIV/AIDS prevalence to prevent spread.
Adedeji made the appeal in an interview with Tribune online to commemorate World AIDS Day.
He noted that the availability of antiretroviral drugs could manage the infected individuals.
He said “Every December 1st, World AIDS Day is an opportunity to jointly reflect on how far we have come in the fight against HIV/AIDS, raise awareness and advocate for continuous sustained efforts in tackling this public health challenge.
“Recent statistics show that about 1.9 million people are living with HIV in Nigeria and many do not know their HIV status. The theme for this year is ‘Let Communities Lead!’ but what does this mean? It simply means that communities have played an immense role and should continue to drive change in the response towards limiting the spread and providing support for people living with HIV.
“People should be aware that HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a viral disease transmitted between people via blood, and certain other body fluids such as semen, rectal fluid, vaginal fluid and breast milk. HIV is not spread by shaking people, it is not spread by hugging people and it is definitely not spread by mosquitoes.
“Do not stigmatise people living with HIV. Fight the disease, not the patient. If you know anyone living with HIV, provide support and do not discriminate against their health.”
Adedeji said that knowing one’s status was the first step that must be taken by everybody so as to jointly fight the spread of the AIDS virus.
“Get tested for HIV today. Knowing your status is the best way to protect yourself. Ignorance is not bliss.
“Have you recently tested positive for HIV and living in denial? There are highly effective Antiretroviral treatments (ART) that help people with HIV live full and productive lives. You don’t need to start worrying about it. Visit a healthcare provider today to get started on treatment.
“Abstinence is the best guarantee from HIV transmission via sex. Being faithful to one partner reduces your risks of HIV exposure if you know your partner’s status. If you have multiple partners, make sure to use a condom and protect yourself. Visit your healthcare professional to learn about HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a daily pill recommended for individuals at high risk of possible exposure to HIV.
“Let Communities Lead! Wherever you find yourself, do not hesitate to speak up against the stigmatization of AIDS. Fight misinformation and share this information with others in your community.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) in partnership with other stakeholders created the awareness campaign with the theme for this year ‘Let Communities Lead!’ to mark the Day.
World AIDS Day is marked each year on Dec. 1, and globally, individuals and governments are contributing by spreading awareness and donating to the cause.
The purpose of the day is to educate people about the disease to further reduce the rate of its spread, as well as its stigma, surrounding those who live with it, and to raise money for research.
It is also the day dedicated to commemorate those who died as a result of the virus.
