Concerns have been raised by the Plateau State government regarding the ongoing stigmatisation of HIV-positive individuals in the state.
The state government demanded a halt, claiming that it is impeding attempts to limit the spread of the illness and keeping people from getting the care they require.
The announcement was made by State Commissioner for Health Dr. Cletus Shurkuk during a press briefing to introduce the 2024 World AIDS Day celebrations, which will have as their subject “Take the Right Path to End HIV/AIDS.”
In order to remove obstacles and create a space where people feel empowered and safe enough to talk about their health without worrying about being judged, the Commissioner urged all parties involved to cooperate.
According to him, they came together to begin the observance of World AIDS Day, which served as a reminder of the continuous fight against HIV/AIDS and their shared duty to make sure that their communities were aware, encouraged, and empowered.
Shurkuk said, “As we come together, we reflect on the strides we have made, the challenges that remain, and the future we aspire to create where every individual can lead a healthy and fulfilling life, free from the stigma and discrimination associated with this virus, and overall an AIDS-free generation.”
The Commissioner went on to say that the theme struck a deep chord with Plateau State’s government’s dedication to promoting health equity and guaranteeing that all people, irrespective of background, had access to essential information, testing, and treatment services.
He claimed that the state has made great strides in the battle against HIV/AIDS, noting that 2,260 new instances of HIV infection and 581 fatalities had been documented in 2023.
According to him, the State has met the 88-98-95 target towards the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) goal of 95 percent of people with HIV infection knowing their status. He also stated that approximately 46,828 pregnant women were tested for HIV between January and June 2024, and an estimated 45,835 people are currently on life-saving ART.