NACA Takes HIV Study To C/River | WakaWaka Reporters
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NACA Takes HIV Study To C/River

As part of efforts to checkmate the spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) to uninfected persons, National Agency for Control of AIDS (NACA) has taken Nigerian Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PREP) demonstration study to Cross River State.

The study, which is conducted in partnership with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, according to PREP coordinator in the state, Dr. Promise Adat, is currently focused on couples.

In her presentation yesterday at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Adat said the benefits of PREP to Nigerian couples cannot be overemphasized.

“Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis PREP is a deliberate effort to prevent an uninfected person or partner who is at risk of getting HIV from getting infected.

“This particular study is for couples in sexual relationship, where one partner is infected with HIV and the other is not.

“It is to determine the best way to include PREP in the nation’s HIV prevention programming. To prevent an uninfected person from getting infected, free sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment, free family planning of choice for couples, as well as free HIV education.”

Dr. Adat urged all concerned to take their drugs as and when due in order to ensure its effectiveness, adding that access to treatment for people living with HIV infection has improved.

She disclosed that so far, 61 couples had been screened and 11 enrolled for the study, while 9 are currently placed on drugs.