The Nigeria Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare proudly announces significant advancements in combating the HIV epidemic, aiming for control nationwide.
The Deputy Director/Head of Treatment Care and Support Program, National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP), FMoH Dr. Peter Nwaokenneya, made this known in Abuja the nations capital during a round table panel discussion with Journalists.
The media roundtable with the theme: “Now is the Time: Fighting Pediatric HIV Through Strategic Partnership” was organized by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) in collaboration with NASCP, FMoH.
According to him, “This ambitious goal reflects Nigeria’s dedication to tackling one of the most pressing health challenges of our time and serves as a beacon of hope for other nations grappling with similar epidemics.”
In her presentation, the Country Manager, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), Dr. Nguavese Torbunde discusses global initiatives to prevent mother-to-child transmission and the term “children left behind,” addressing disparities in pediatric HIV care.
Dr. Torbunde advocates for prioritizing pediatric research, developing child-friendly medications, and fostering collaboration between governments, NGOs, and pharmaceutical companies to close the gap in pediatric HIV/AIDS care.
EGPAF provided insights on how journalists can strengthen their reporting on pediatric HIV, contributing to progress toward an AIDS-free generation.
“Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, increasing awareness, and fostering collaboration between governments, NGOs, and pharmaceutical companies are essential for closing the gap in pediatric HIV/AIDS care,” she said.
A Consultant Pediatrician, University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Rosemary Ugwu emphasizes youth engagement and the vital role of media in creating supportive communities.
Prof. Ugwu sheds light on the evolution of HIV treatment, emphasizing the importance of family-centered healthcare for early diagnosis and treatment adherence.
“By leveraging technology, media can transcend geographical barriers, educate diverse audiences, and contribute to reducing stigma and discrimination.
“Thoughtful content, awareness campaigns, and inclusive messaging can foster understanding, empathy, and a sense of community across different backgrounds and experiences,” she said.
She shared insights on the evolution of HIV treatment. “Initially, there were no drugs, and contact meant automatic death.
She noted that in early 2000s saw adult drugs, but children struggled to access them. Mixing adult drugs with syrup (vitamin B or C) improved child recovery.
“Despite syrup challenges, research brought tablets and fixed combinations for easier use,” she added.
She said that the country faced hurdles with the first drug, but progress has been made.
The National Coordinator, Association of Positive Youth in Nigeria (APYIN) Mr. Aaron Sunday underscores the significance of human-centered design, empowerment, empathy, and trust in fighting Pediatric HIV.
Sunday said that to identify HIV cases among adolescents and adequately administer treatment to them, human centered design should be adopted through empowerment, empathy, partnership and trust, among others in the country.
“APYIN as well as other partners and organizations are working towards eliminating the killer disease by 2030,” he said.
EGPAF in Nigeria provides highly targeted technical support to the sub-national and national stakeholders on HIV response for children, adolescents, and pregnant women with the aim of developing sustainable quality interventions.
EGPAF has implemented and scaled up innovative models to improve access to Early Infant Diagnoses (EID), HIV testing and counseling, and pediatric and adolescent HIV service delivery in close collaboration with the and Federal Ministry of Health, strengthening the capacity in pediatric HIV and advocating for children and families living with HIV
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