The Delta State Government has stepped up its health advocacy to sensitise the residents amid the risk of contracting the deadly Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus and Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) disease during the festive season.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, urged residents to prioritise safe practices to minimise the spread of the virus.
He warned against complacency in tackling the human immunodeficiency virus, which destroys the body immune system and has no known cure.
Onojaeme explained that early diagnosis and consistent use of antiretroviral drugs, such as Zidovudine and Lamivudine, significantly reduce viral loads, limiting mother-to-child transmission risks.
He encouraged regular HIV testing, abstinence, use of condoms, and monogamy as practical preventive measures.
He highlighted efforts to educate residents in English and local languages, noting: “Prevalence rates in Delta State are dropping, but we aim to bring it down further, like states with a 0.5% prevalence rate.”
While Delta State’s HIV prevalence currently stands at 1.8%, officials continue grassroots outreach to encourage testing and proper drug adherence.
The commissioner reassured residents that living with HIV is not a death sentence if it is properly managed.
“A person can live over 40 years with proper precautions. Testing positive doesn’t mean life ends,” he stated.
He also urged the media to amplify the government’s health campaigns to curb new infections effectively.