By Obianuju Isima
For a resident worried about a possible HIV exposure, struggling with treatment adherence or simply seeking reliable information, getting the right help should not depend on distance, fear or stigma.
It is against this backdrop that the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has unveiled its maiden newsletter and Telehealth Service to bring confidential HIV information, prevention guidance and access to appropriate care closer to Ndị Anambra.
The platforms were unveiled on Sept. 22 at Chiben Hotel, formally known as Hilton Leisure, Awka, with the Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, Dr. Mrs. Ifeoma Njelita, and other stakeholders in attendance.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Mefor commended the leadership of ANSACA under Dr. Nkem Okeke, describing the progress recorded by the agency within a short period as remarkable.
He conveyed the goodwill of the Soludo Administration, commending Governor Chukwuma Soludo, for supporting the repositioning of ANSACA and strengthening the state’s HIV response.
According to Dr. Mefor, the governor’s approach to governance includes attention to vulnerable members of society, making sustained HIV prevention, treatment and stigma reduction an important part of the state’s health agenda.
He urged residents to move beyond fear and misinformation about HIV, emphasizing the importance of knowing their status early and accessing appropriate care.
The newly unveiled ANSACA Telehealth Service gives residents a confidential channel to seek guidance on HIV prevention, possible exposure, PEP, PrEP, testing, treatment and medication adherence.
People who may be unable or uncomfortable visiting a health facility because of distance, mobility challenges, stigma or discrimination can use the service to obtain appropriate guidance and referrals based on their needs and location.
For people living with HIV, the platform can also provide support when they experience challenges with medication, adherence or continued access to care.
The service is designed to complement existing hospitals, health workers and telemedicine systems, creating a practical link between residents and the services they need.
The ANSACA maiden newsletter will serve as another channel for sharing credible HIV information, documenting the agency’s activities and informing residents and stakeholders about available prevention, testing and treatment services.
Dr. Mefor urged stakeholders and communities to support ANSACA’s renewed efforts, stressing the need to know one’s status, embrace prevention, reject stigma and seek care when necessary.
Obianuju Isima is of the Ministry of Information and value Reformation, Anambra State
#ANSACA
#HIVPrevention
#HealthyAnambra
