The Ebonyi State Agency for Control of AIDS (EBOSACA) has disclosed that approximately 15,000 individuals in the state are currently living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This revelation was made by the agency’s Executive Secretary and Programs Manager, Chibueze Iteshi, during a press briefing in Abakaliki, the state capital.
Iteshi expressed concern over the rising HIV prevalence, particularly among individuals aged 18 to 35, noting that the rate has been increasing on a quarterly basis. In response, the agency has announced plans for an aggressive sensitization campaign aimed at reaching every corner of the state. The campaign will focus on prevention measures and emphasize the importance of regular testing for early detection and treatment.
The Executive Secretary also highlighted a significant shortfall in the availability of HIV services across the state, with only 56 out of 719 health facilities currently providing such services. He called for greater involvement from partners, Civil Society Organizations, health facilities, and other stakeholders in the fight against HIV in Ebonyi State.
Iteshi expressed gratitude to Governor Francis Nwifuru for including the agency in the state’s 2024 budget, a departure from what he described as years of neglect. He reassured the public that EBOSACA remains committed to fulfilling its core mandates and encouraged residents, especially the youth, to undergo regular HIV testing, practice good hygiene, and maintain healthy lifestyles.
He also called for an end to the discrimination against people living with HIV, pointing out that the “HIV and AIDS Anti-Discrimination Act 2014” imposes a fine of N250,000, one year imprisonment, or both for offenders, particularly in workplaces.
Iteshi assured that with early detection and proper use of antiretroviral drugs, individuals infected with HIV can still live a full life with a suppressed viral load.
“We shall engage stakeholders in advocacy visits to foster collaboration. We have already visited the ALGON chairman, who promised to involve other LGA chairmen and development center coordinators in the sensitization on preventive measures,” he stated.
The sensitization campaign will include detailed community testing, town hall meetings, and the involvement of traditional rulers and other stakeholders across all autonomous communities in the state. Iteshi stressed the importance of regular HIV testing, especially for those at high risk due to their jobs, and urged people to take advantage of free testing services to manage their health effectively.
“The current rate of HIV infection in the state is quite alarming. On a quarterly basis, when we validate our data, we consistently find hundreds of new cases. We currently have about 15,000 people living with the virus in the state,” Iteshi warned. He concluded by advising those at high risk to undergo HIV testing every three months to ensure early detection and treatment.
