‘Supporting people living with HIV/Aids’
The main aim of the commemoration was to support people living and affected by HIV, and remembering the lives of people who have died of the virus.
Gamalakhe Community Health Centre commemorated World Aids Day last week at the Siyaphambili Crèche in Masinenge under the theme “equalise and integrate to end Aids”.
The centre’s Nonzaliseko Sikhondo said no person should lose their lives due to the disease since government gives out ARVs. She said every patient that has tested positive for HIV/Aids must be enrolled on ARVs immediately.
She added that if you are planning to have a family while you are HIV positive, your viral load has to be suppressed.
Sikhondo said there are preventive measures to ensure that people are not infected with HIV such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (Prep) and condom usage.
“If you were involved in an unprotected sex and you don’t trust your partner, please visit the clinic within 72 hours in order to be issued with Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (Pep). The Pep must be taken for 28 days. This pill is also recommended for someone who has been sexually assaulted,” she said.
Meanwhile Gamalakhe Community Health Centre’s public relations officer, Lifa Radebe said the main aim of the commemoration was to support people living and affected by HIV, and remembering the lives of people who died of the virus.
“The combination prevention initiatives includes oral Pre- Exposure Prophylaxis ( Prep) which is one pill taken every day to prevent HIV infection. It is an ARV taken before exposure to HIV. Then there is Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) which is an ARV taken after exposure which is taken within 72 hours but for 28 days, to prevent HIV. Lastly, there are ARVs for people who tested HIV positive which is a lifelong treatment to minimise the effect of HIV, strengthen the immune system, reduce viral load and increase CD4 count,” he said, adding that during the commemoration in Masinenge, a candle lighting ceremony was done to honour those who dedicate their lives in helping people who live with and are affected by HIV and continue to mobilise the community in solidarity.
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