Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2008. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
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New Vision (Kampala) - December 1, 2008
The decline in HIV infection rates, for which Uganda was acclaimed worldwide, is no more. Instead, infection rates appear to be rising in some areas.
At the same time there is a rebound of risky sexual behaviours such as having multiple sexual partners, particularly among married people aged 35 and above.
Clearly the HIV prevention strategies employed for the last two decades are no longer as effective as they were in the early years.
These days people live longer and healthier with the virus. Consequently, the fear factor, which served as a strong motivation for behaviour change, has diminished. This calls for new radical approaches, such as universal HIV counselling and testing.
Ninety-four percent of Ugandan adults do not have HIV though three quarters of them do not know their status.
What they need is to know that they are still free of HIV and that their biggest shield is to avoid risky sexual behaviour. Research has shown that people become more careful after taking a test and finding out they are HIV-negative.
The few who will be found HIV-positive can be supported to live longer. With better treatment, there is no reason for anyone to fear to know their HIV status.
Rather than wait for people to look for HIV testing centres, medical workers should persuade every person who comes to hospital or a health centre, to take a test.
All health facilities should be given the equipment and the necessary training. Health workers should also make efforts to visit people in their communities and help them to know their HIV status. Whereas health workers can provide information, the decision to take a test should be voluntary.
Politicians at all levels should join in the battle and not only encourage people to test, but also ensure that health centres in their areas have the facilities.
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Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2008. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
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