Many of us have been affected by HIV/Aids, whether we have lost a loved one or know of someone suffering from HIV.
Let us take some time to reflect on the moments we have spent with them, but also, the lessons we have learnt from them. We need to work together to fight against our struggle with HIV/Aids and to reduce new infections.
We need to know our status. Knowing your status gives you the advantage of knowing you need to take the necessary measures. If you are HIV positive you can go on treatment early if your CD4 count is low.
If you are negative, you can also take preventative measures to remain negative. Knowing your status also helps you to lead a better and healthier lifestyle.
You can also protect your partner if you are positive. Using condoms is extremely important if you want to remain negative.
HIV-positive pregnant women will be started immediately on treatment. They would start on a fixed-dose combination of three ARV tablets, regardless of their CD4 count. This is to protect their unborn babies from becoming HIV positive. No pregnant woman should be turned away from a clinic without an HIV test being done. The HIV status of breastfeeding mothers must also be determined. Please remember to take your treatment as prescribed by the clinician or doctor.
An HIV test at a clinic is reliable and quick. It is also done in confidence and you don’t have to disclose your status to anyone. You will be also be counselled before and after your test.
Everything is done privately, so don’t be afraid to test. Testing and knowing your status gives you the power to make wise decisions and to live a long, healthy life.
What do I do if I test positive?
- You need to get support from the people who care about you. Tell someone that is close to you and who you love.
- You are not alone, you can also get more counselling from clinic staff.
- There are also support groups at the clinics that you can attend. Support groups provide emotional support for people living with the disease. You also get important information on how to deal with living with HIV/Aids. There are people that have the same concerns or fears as yourself.
- Family members or members of your church can also give you support.
- Get more information about HIV/Aids.
- You also need to get tested for TB. The nurse will give you treatment for any infections. Ensure that you take your medication according to the nurse’s instructions.
- Exercise and eat healthy foods.
- Lastly, but most importantly, condomise.
