Kano State has identified 4,274 new HIV/AIDS cases over the past year, following extensive testing of 326,831 individuals across various healthcare facilities.
The initiative, which was conducted in 592 primary healthcare centres, 43 public secondary facilities, and select private clinics, has expanded the number of people receiving treatment in the state to 32,684.
READ ALSO: Taraba confirms 77 persons HIV positive
Speaking at a press conference to commemorate the 2024 World AIDS Day, the Kano State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Labaran Yusuf, highlighted the state’s efforts in HIV prevention, treatment, and care. “We are committed to improving healthcare access and ensuring that those living with HIV receive the care they need,” Dr. Yusuf said.
In response to the increasing number of HIV-positive patients, the commissioner confirmed that all 4,274 identified individuals have been placed on Antiretroviral Treatment (ART). The total number of patients currently receiving ART in Kano has now reached 32,684.
Dr. Yusuf also shared details of the state’s efforts to curb the spread of HIV, including the implementation of the pre-marital screening law. This law mandates couples to undergo testing for HIV, sickle cell, and genotype before marriage. He emphasized that 3% of the state’s health budget has been allocated to the Kano State AIDS Agency to fund HIV-related initiatives.
Additionally, the commissioner noted the state’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare for vulnerable populations. Over 600 Orphan and Vulnerable Children (OVC) and 2,200 People Living with HIV (PLHIV) have been enrolled in the state’s contributory healthcare scheme, which ensures they can access healthcare services without out-of-pocket expenses.
These efforts are supported by the Kano State Health Trust Fund and the partner organization LHSS, with plans to enroll an additional 2,500 individuals in the near future.
In line with this year’s World AIDS Day theme, “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”, Dr. Yusuf renewed the state’s commitment to combating HIV-related stigma and discrimination while promoting universal access to prevention, treatment, and care.
“We must all come together to fight against the stigma and ensure that those affected by HIV can live healthy, dignified lives,” he concluded.
