The New HIV Vaccine and Microbicide Advocacy Society (NHVMAS) has advocated for the introduction of Dapivirine Vaginal ring (DPV-VR) in Nigeria as one of the preventive choices against Human papilloma virus (HIV) for women. The group echoed the call to mark the 2023 World AIDS Day with the theme “Let Communities Lead”.
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According to the Executive Director NHVMAS, Florita Durueke the Dapivirine Vaginal ring (DPV-VR) is a necessary choice for women especially the young adolescents in the prevention of HIV and also for the encouragement of dual protection. She said that the ring is safe and easy to insert inside a woman’s private part.
“The ring will be inside the vagina for 28 days after which another one can be inserted and it is recommended for women 18 years and above. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the DPV-VR as a new choice for HIV prevention for women at substantial risk of HIV infection. These include but not limited to Female Sex Workers, Sexually active adolescents, Heterosexual women and serodiscordant couples” she reiterated.
The DPV-VR is a female initiated option to reduce risk of HIV infection. To properly use the ring, Durueke said that it must be worn inside the vagina for a period of 28 days after which it should be replaced by a new ring.
How the ring works
The ring is made of silicone and is easy to bend and insert. According to Durueke the bend is done in such a way that it forms an 8 shape before inserting it inside the vagina which rests on the base of the cervix. It offers high level of privacy she said.
The ring works by releasing the antiretroviral drugs Dapivirine from the ring into the vagina slowly over a period of 28 days.
Countries that have approved the use of DPV-VR include Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana.
“Nigeria can also introduce the ring because of the rising prevalence of HIV among women and and young adolescents”.
The anatomy of a female adolescent increases her risk of HIV infection.
HIV behaviours such as early sexual debut, multiple sex partners, transactional sex, having sex partners who are 10 years or more other than her is on the increase among adolescents and there is need to introduce Dapivirine vaginal ring as a Pre-exposure prophylaxis choice Durueke said.
World AIDS Day is marked on every December 1, since 1988. It is an international day dedicated to raise awareness of the HIV pandemic caused by the spread of the virus.
Government, health officials and non- governmental organizations around the world observe the day often with education on HIV/AIDS prevention and control.
As the global Community marks this year’s World Aids Day with the theme ” Let Communities Lead” the New HIV and Vaccine Microbicide Advocacy Society (NHVMAS) is sensitising stakeholders on the need for the introduction of Dapivirine Vaginal ring in Nigeria.
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