By Faith Eze
A major concern raised by NACA is the rising number of new infections among young people. Misinformation, persistent myths, and a declining use of protective measures like condoms have contributed significantly to this spike. NACA stresses that dispelling false rumors about how the virus spreads—such as the mistaken belief that HIV can be transmitted through casual contact like handshakes or hugging—is vital to ensuring young individuals take proactive steps toward protection.
To combat the spread, NACA and the World Health Organization (WHO) are actively expanding access to preventive measures. Beyond traditional options like condom use and abstinence, Nigeria is introducing modern tools such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). This includes daily oral pills and newer long-acting options, such as injectable PrEP taken every few months, which can reduce the risk of contracting HIV through sex by up to 99 percent when used correctly.
Despite the recorded new cases, health officials point out that over 98 percent of the Nigerian population remains HIV-negative, given the national prevalence rate of roughly 1.3 percent. This statistic underscores that targeted prevention efforts can protect the majority of the population from contracting the virus, provided people stay informed and consistently utilize safety measures.
For individuals living with HIV, NACA reassures the public that the diagnosis is no longer a life sentence. Free and highly effective Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) is offered at government health centers across the country. Consistent use of this treatment allows individuals to manage the condition effectively, stay healthy, and lead full lives.
Furthermore, consistent treatment helps achieve viral suppression, leading to the health principle known as "Undetectable = Untransmittable" (U=U). When an individual’s viral load becomes undetectable through regular medication, they cannot pass the virus to their sexual partners. This makes sticking to prescribed medication both a personal health strategy and a key community prevention tool.
Nigeria maintains its goal of reaching HIV epidemic control by 2030. Achieving this target requires strong cooperation between government agencies, healthcare providers, media outlets, and the general public to promote regular testing, eliminate stigma, and encourage treatment.
Understanding your status is the essential first step toward taking control of your health. Everyone is encouraged to visit a nearby public health facility for testing, access free counseling, and explore the preventive and treatment options best suited to their needs.