HIV Care

Bobic Kiweewa • October 25, 2024

The impact of HIV Care in Ndegeya

In rural Uganda About 11.2% of people are living with HIV, with women affected more than men (12.9% vs. 8.6%). This is a serious health issue, especially since this region has historically had high HIV rates.

Recent data shows also that around 1.04% of adults get HIV each year, with younger people being more affected. Specifically, young men and women aged 20-24 have the highest rates, at 9.2 per 100 for men and 6.8 per 100 for women. These numbers highlight the ongoing risk of new infections, particularly among younger individuals.


The HIV situation in the Ndegeya community also reflects this and causes ongoing challenges and developments in the community’s public health landscape.


Testing

HIV testing is the vital first step toward prevention, care, treatment, and support services! The goal of HIV testing services (HTS) is to quickly identify HIV status, ensuring timely access to essential resources. According to the 2020 UPHIA data, only 81% of the 1.45 million HIV-positive individuals aged 15 and older knew their status, but among those, 96% were on an antiretroviral therapy (ART), and 92% achieved viral suppression!


To boost access and efficiency, HTS must reach everyone at risk using impactful strategies. Excitingly, the Ndegeya community clinic has teamed up with the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) to strengthen HIV/AIDS prevention in the Masaka region. They've received 100 HIV testing kits to kickstart their efforts!


Importance of Testing for Pregnant Women

In Uganda, it is essential for all pregnant women to know their HIV status to prevent the transmission of the virus to their babies during childbirth and breastfeeding. At the new Ndegeya Community Clinic (MCC), all mothers are screened for HIV during antenatal care, because it is the earliest possible opportunity that we recommend HIV testing before delivering. Those who tested positive were promptly linked to HIV care at nearby government facilities, where they can access free HIV medications. This initiative is a crucial step in eliminating mother-to-child transmission of the virus!


Promoting testing

For the official opening of the MCC on October 19th 2024, vouchers were handed out for certain free services, of which HIV testing was one of them. Fifteen women consented to and received HIV testing, following thorough pre-test counseling to prepare them for the process. After the tests, post-test counseling was provided, sharing valuable information about the disease with the mothers.


During the first two deliveries at the MCC, one mother tested HIV positive but was already receiving care. The doctor and midwife at the MCC provided her with essential information to ensure her baby remains HIV-free.


Testing for Sexual Assault Survivors:

On the opening day of the MCH, a pregnant survivor of sexual assault received free testing services. The goal is to ensure that all HIV-negative survivors are started on PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis), which helps prevent HIV acquisition if the perpetrator is HIV positive.


With the opening of the MCC we set to transform maternal and child health outcomes in Ndegeya, while also supercharging the fight against HIV/AIDS in the community! The Ndegeya Community Clinic and the Mother and Childcare Centre are eager to collaborate with organizations and individuals who share this vision, amplifying efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and create a healthier future for all in Ndegeya!

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