Identified in 1981 for the first time, HIV has claimed around 36 million lives till now and is one of the deadliest public health issues. Till now, no effective cure for HIV exists and once a person gets infected, they have the infection for life.
World AIDS Day is observed on the 1st of December every year to show support for people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), to end inequalities that lead to Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), and to fight social stigmas created around HIV. This year is different from other years because of varied factors such as the presence of COVID-19 crisis but the day has been tagged “End Inequalities. End AIDS”, and is aimed at focusing on reaching people who have been left behind especially as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
AIDS is a chronic, potentially life-threatening health condition caused by HIV that interferes with the body’s ability to fight infections. Apart from the disease itself, the lack of awareness and social taboos associated with HIV and AIDS are also worsening the condition. All we have to do is to understand the basics of HIV and ensure our protection.
Results released recently by the Nigerian Government indicate a national HIV prevalence in Nigeria of 1.4% among adults aged 15–49 years. This is against previous estimates which had indicated a national HIV prevalence of 2.8%. However, In fulfillment of our commitment to improving the sexual and reproductive health outcomes of women, girls, and young people, we have organized a three-day free testing and counseling activities across 3 communities in Lagos, to be replicated in Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Oyo, and Ekiti States.
Written by Titilayo Fakeye
