ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT URGES RESIDENTS TO KNOW THEIR HIV STATUS
By Obianuju Isima
The Anambra State Government has urged residents to know their HIV status, describing it as the first step toward HIV prevention, timely treatment and the achievement of epidemic control across the state.
The call was made on June 27 to mark National HIV Testing Day, during an interview on NTA International (NTAi) with the Executive Director and Project Manager of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), Dr. Nkem Okeke, reiterating the government’s commitment to raising public awareness about HIV, encouraging residents to make use of available testing services.
According to Dr. Okeke, “Knowing your HIV status is a gateway for HIV prevention, treatment and ultimately achieving epidemic control for HIV.”
He explained that knowing one’s HIV status allows those who test positive to begin treatment early, while those who test negative can access appropriate prevention services to remain HIV-free.
Dr. Okeke noted that regular HIV testing remains one of the most effective ways to reduce new infections, improve health outcomes and limit the spread of the virus within communities.
He reaffirmed the Anambra State Government’s commitment, through ANSACA and in collaboration with healthcare providers and development partners, to expanding access to HIV testing, treatment and support services across the state.
He urged residents to embrace regular HIV testing, know their status and join the collective effort to eliminate HIV as a public health threat in Anambra State and Nigeria at large.
Obianuju Isima is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State