Bellavista Clinic commemorates World Aids Day
Get tested: It is important to know your status.
BELLAVISTA – Among other things that were emphasised at Bellavista Clinic on World Aids Day were the prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) and knowing your status.
After Sister Masesi Maswanganyi welcomed the guests at the clinic, various speakers shared the podium, explaining ways to prevent HIV. “We encourage individuals, couples and family members to come to Room 5 at the clinic. It is very important to know your status. We test HIV, TB, STIs and any communicable diseases, our HIV test is called Rapid Test and is painless,” explained Sister Francinah.
Sister Phidelia Moti said PMTCT is a must. “It is a disgrace for a clinic to have a child born infected with HIV. We can implement it, however we need to work as a collective. If you are woman, the first time you miss your period, you need to come to the clinic and get tested. Preventing the transmission of HIV from a mother to her unborn child is a key intervention in curbing the spread of HIV,” she said.
Sister Rose Ntini stressed that people need to stop spreading myths, they need to fight ignorance and the stigma around HIV/Aids.
“The clinic is one of the many places where you can get information, not from your neighbour or friend. Regular testing is important. When you are given treatment, please comply with it. Breastfeeding mothers need to play safe for the sake of their children. It’s either you always use a condom or abstain when breastfeeding,” noted Sister Rose.
Bellavista Clinic residential doctor, Dr Jose pleaded with the community to know their status. Also in attendance was Ward 55 Cllr Rashieda Landis.
