Centre for HIV/AIDS and STD Research (CHISTRE) collaborates with the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) to provide HIV Testing Services (HTS) in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). CHISTRE was contracted to screen 30,000 individuals for HIV. This initiative aims to identify HIV-positive individuals early and link them to appropriate care and treatment services.
Project Overview
Advocacy Visits: Conducted advocacy visits to key stakeholders, including AMAC Council and religious organizations.
Resources: Received essential materials from IHVN, such as test kits and other supplies.
Outreach Programs: Implemented various outreach strategies including community mobilization, house-to-house testing, and targeting high-risk areas.
Testing Process: Provided group and individual pre-test counseling, followed by testing and post-test counseling using national guidelines.
Referrals: Referred HIV-positive individuals to health facilities for further care and treatment.
Quality Assurance and Supervision
Monitoring: Supervised by IHVN’s HTC focal person and CHISTRE project coordinator to ensure high-quality service delivery.
Quality Control: Implemented quality assurance measures for HIV testing and counseling to maintain service standards.
Achievements
High public participation and awareness
Effective use of community leaders for mobilization
Reduction in stigma associated with HIV testing
Challenges
High demand for services with inadequate test kits
Difficulties in maintaining confidentiality for physically challenged individuals
Limited funding and resources
CHISTRE continues to provide comprehensive HIV testing and support services, addressing both medical and psychosocial needs of clients.
