Pregnant women in Oyo State have been urged to register for antenatal care and undergo HIV testing to determine their status, as part of efforts to reduce the spread of HIV, particularly among children.
The call was made by Dr. Gbola Adetunji, the Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA), in a statement marking the 2024 World AIDS Day.
Dr. Adetunji emphasized the critical role of early detection and prevention in safeguarding both mothers and children from HIV transmission. He stressed that timely antenatal care, coupled with HIV testing, is vital in ensuring that expectant mothers receive the necessary support to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to their unborn children.
He also highlighted the availability of preventive measures, including antiretroviral therapy (ART), which can significantly lower the chances of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
Dr. Adetunji referenced alarming statistics on Nigeria’s contribution to the global HIV burden, particularly among children. Citing a 2020 UNICEF report, he pointed out that Nigeria accounted for an estimated 21,000 new child HIV infections in that year, the highest number of new child infections worldwide.
This statistic underscores the urgent need for enhanced awareness, testing, and prevention strategies to protect both pregnant women and their children from the HIV virus.
“By registering for antenatal care and getting tested for HIV, pregnant women can take the first step in ensuring their health and the health of their babies, This is crucial in our fight to reduce new HIV infections and eliminate the transmission of HIV from mother to child.” Dr. Adetunji stated.
The OYSACA Chairman also called on healthcare providers in the state to strengthen their efforts in counseling and educating pregnant women about the importance of HIV testing and the benefits of early intervention.
He noted that World AIDS Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness and promote HIV testing as a critical measure in the ongoing fight against the epidemic.
Dr. Adetunji reiterated the state’s commitment to improving HIV prevention, treatment, and care services, as well as working towards achieving the goal of ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Nigeria.
He encouraged pregnant women, their families, and the general public to take the necessary steps in ensuring a future free from HIV-related health challenges.
