By Akanimo Kufre
In a recent effort to instill a healthy and responsible lifestyle among citizens, the Akwa Ibom State Agency for the Control of AIDS (AKSACA), has partnered with faith-based organizations to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS in Akwa Ibom State.
Unprotected sexual intercourse, drug abuse, rape, contaminated needle sharing, and mother-to-child transmission were highlighted as some of the major routes for HIVprevalence.
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the body’s immune system by destroying the CD4 cells. CD4 cells’ crucial job is to protect the body from infections such as cold and other infections. HIV, therefore, makes the body vulnerable to other infections. Recently, there have been concerns about the resurgence of new infections cases, especially among young people.
To tackle the menace of HIV/AIDS in the State, AKSACA Project Manager, Dr. Enobong Akpan led an interactive delegation to the Muslim community at the Central Mosque in Mbak Itam 3, Itu LGA. The Friday 10th October meeting in the outskirts of Uyo became fruitful as members of the Muslim community enjoy AKSACA medical outreach services as well.
Dr. Akpan stressed that the campaign with faith-based organizations was in line with the health sector reforms and the Arise Agenda of Gov. Umo Eno’s administration.
According to Dr. Akpan, “The Governor’s vision is for every Akwa Ibomite and all residents in the state to enjoy good health and the dividends of democracy.
“Embrace abstinence, faithfulness to one uninfected partner, consistent and correct use of condoms, adherence to PEP and PrEP medications, and avoidance of drug abuse.” Dr. Akpan noted some preventive measures.
The Co- Chairman of NIF- COBB AIDS, Akwa Ibom State and Akwa Ibom State Council for Islamic Affairs representative Alhaji Isa Ahmed expressed excitement at the success of the AKSACA interactive sessions with the Muslim community.
“We are happy with the success of this meeting. We invited the HIV Awareness team, and more meetings would be held subsequently in Mosques and Churches.”
Beyond sensitization speeches, the team offered outreach services to the members of the Muslim community in Akwa Ibom State. These included on-site HIV testing, distribution of self-test kits, condom education, and free screening for tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension.
