Kisii Governor Hon. James Ongwae has called for increased efforts in prevention of HIV and Aids within the County.
Speaking during the opening of a two day stock taking meeting on eliminating Mother to Child Transmission of HIV at Itibo Resort, Ongwae said there was urgent need to reverse the current prevalence rate that stands at 8 per cent.
The meeting brought together stakeholders in the health sector among them health workers and donor organizations. UNAIDS country Director Ms. Jantine Jacobi was present.
“We have invested heavily in curative services for our health sector but the aspect of prevention is critical especially in the fight against HIV and Aids. We need to scale up HIV testing and ensure we avail quality healthcare to expectant mothers,” said Ongwae.
The Governor noted that due to fear of stigma, many people were shying away from HIV testing yet it was critical in the management of the disease. He urged health workers to take the lead in seeking the test and create awareness in the community.
According to statistics released by the National Aids and STI Control Programme (NASCOP), eight in every 100 expectant mothers in Kisii County transmit the HIV virus to their children.
21 per cent of females and 35 per cent of males in Kisii County have never gone for a HIV test. Only 47 per cent of pregnant women go for the first Antenatal Clinic. UNAIDS Country Director Ms. Jantine Jacobi said the United Nations was willing to support efforts to eliminate new infections and announced that Kisii is among 10 counties that will receive funding for the establishment of situation rooms to monitor progress in combating HIV.
“Our community needs to be free of HIV. It is a shame that a mother in need of care can miss this service because missed opportunities are all about quality healthcare,” said Jacobi.
Ongwae urged health workers to rededicate their energies towards giving patients the best care in line with their oath. He directed the department of Administration and Stakeholder Management to assist health workers in creating awareness on HIV in public barazas and other forums.
