We need to work together to fight against our struggle with HIV/Aids and to reduce new infections.
We need to know our status.
Knowing your status puts you at an advantage. If you are tested HIV positive you can be treated as early as possible if your CD4 count is low. If you are tested negative, you can also take preventative measures to remain negative.
Knowing your status also helps you to lead a better and healthier lifestyle. You can also protect your partner if you are positive. Using condoms is extremely important if you want to remain negative.
Pregnant women who test HIV positive will be started on treatment immediately. They will start on a fixed dose combination (FDC – combination of three ARVS in one tablet) regardless of their CD4 count.
This is to protect their unborn babies from becoming positive. No pregnant women should be turned away frrom a clinic without an HIV test being done. HIV status of breastfeeding women must also be determined. Remember to take your treatment as prescribed by the clinician/doctor.
The HIV test at the clinic is reliable and quick. It is also done confidentially and you don’t have to disclose your status to anyone. You will be also be counselled before and after your test. Everything is done privately so don’t be afraid to test. Testing and knowing your status gives you the power to make wise decisions and to live longer, healthier lives.
What do I do if I am tested positive for HIV?
You also need to get tested for TB. You need to get support from the people that care about you. You are not alone, you can also receive more counselling from the clinic staff. There are also support groups at clinics.
Support groups provide emotional support for people living with the disease, and provide you with important information on how to deal with living with HIV/Aids
Family members or members of your church can also give you support. Get more information about HIV/Aids. The nurse will also give you treatment for any other infections. Ensure that you take your medication according to the nurse’s instructions. Exercise and eat healthy foods.
