Introduction
Nigeria faces one of the largest HIV epidemics globally, with significant implications for public health. According to the Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS) (Nigeria Prevalence Rate – NACA Nigeria), approximately 1.9 million people in Nigeria are living with HIV, with a national prevalence rate of 1.4% among adults aged 15–49 years.
The UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets aim at having 95% of all people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to be on treatment, and 95% of those treated to have suppressed viral loads and Nigeria as a country is working towards achieving this. The question is, are we on track to achieve these targets? Targeted HIV testing is the strategy to achieve the 1st 95 target, yet many Nigerians remain untested due to fear, stigma, and misconceptions.
The Importance of HIV Testing
Taking an HIV test is the only definitive way to know one’s status. HIV often shows no symptoms in its early stages, and the symptoms of AIDS can take years to develop. Therefore, it’s crucial to get tested, even if one feels perfectly healthy. Knowing your HIV status is essential for taking appropriate action to protect your health and prevent the virus from spreading.
HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids, which means it can spread through unprotected sex and sharing needles. If anyone has engaged in any of these, it’s important to get tested. Once you know your status, you can take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others, including starting treatment if needed.
Major benefits of HIV Testing
- Identifying HIV Early: When HIV is found early, treatment can start right away, helping to reduce its impact on the body and allowing one to live a longer, healthier life.
- Protecting Your Loved Ones: Knowing your HIV status helps you take steps to prevent spreading the virus to your partners and family.
- Peace of Mind for Your Health: Even if you think the risk is low, getting tested can give you peace of mind and help you take control of your health.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
Over the years, numerous myths about HIV and its transmission have circulated and these have caused significant barriers to testing in Nigeria. We must address these misconceptions as that is key to spreading accurate understanding about the disease and reducing stigma. Here are some common myths, along with the facts that debunk them.
Myth: You can tell if someone has HIV just by looking at them.
Fact: Many people living with HIV may not show any symptoms for years and can appear perfectly healthy. The only definitive way to know someone’s HIV status is through testing.
Myth: HIV can be spread through casual contact like hugging or sharing food.
Fact: HIV is not spread through casual contact. It is transmitted through specific bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
Myth: If I recently tested negative, I don’t need to worry.
Fact: If you were exposed to HIV shortly before your last test, it may not have been detectable yet due to the “window period.” It’s important to retest after a specified period to ensure an accurate result.
Myth: HIV and AIDS are the same thing.
Fact: HIV is the virus that, if left untreated, can lead to AIDS. With proper treatment, individuals with HIV can live long, healthy lives without ever developing AIDS.
Myth: HIV testing is expensive and difficult to access.
Fact: HIV testing is widely available and free in Government-owned hospitals.
By correcting existing misconceptions, we can help more people get tested and receive the right knowledge to protect their health.
EHAI’s HIV-Focused Projects and Contributions – Building Healthier Communities, One Step at a Time
EHAI is an indigenous non-governmental organization committed to improving health outcomes, with a strong focus on HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis. EHAI has played an active role in HIV prevention and treatment through different projects, some of which include the ASPIRE and ACE-6 Projects.
EHAI supports HIV testing under the ASPIRE PEPFAR-funded project in 14 health facilities in 3 Local Government areas (Akwanga, Wamba and Nasarawa Egon) in Nasarawa State and two health facilities in one LGA (Kwali) in FCT. The ACE-6 project targets reducing HIV prevalence in Lagos State through community-based HIV testing and case-finding, focusing on vulnerable populations such as key populations and adolescents. Specific activities include conducting community HIV testing in hotspots, increasing access to preventive HIV services, enhancing care and treatment enrollment for positive cases, and driving awareness through advocacy and social mobilization.
The fight against HIV/AIDS demands unwavering commitment, strategic action, and a people-centered approach. Through its comprehensive initiatives and a strategic network of testing sites, EHAI continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s HIV response. By providing free and confidential HIV testing services, linking individuals promptly to care, supporting the prevention of mother-to-child transmission, and driving community engagement, EHAI helps to dismantle stigma, promote early detection, and build healthier resilient communities. EHAI stands ready to support every individual on this journey, ensuring equitable access, empowering communities, and fostering lasting change.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Regular HIV testing is not just a personal responsibility but a critical step toward controlling Nigeria’s HIV epidemic. Knowing your HIV status is a powerful first step, one that protects your health and contributes to ending the HIV epidemic. With approximately 1.9 million people living with HIV and a national prevalence of 1.4% among adults aged 15–49 years (2019 data), the need for widespread testing is urgent. Dispelling myths and understanding the importance of early detection can empower Nigerians to take charge of their health. Testing centers, including EHAI’s community-based initiatives, are readily available. As Nigeria strives to meet the 95-95-95 targets, every individual has a role to play. Get tested today to know your status, access treatment if needed, and help prevent the spread of HIV. For more information on EHAI’s initiatives, visit EHAI Nigeria.
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Written by Pharm Olufunmilola Abodunde
Head, Clinical and Quality Improvement Services/Project Director, ASPIRE, EHAI Nigeria
