MASS WEDDING: KSACA SECURE SLOTS FOR PEOPLE LEAVING WITH HIV/AIDS………..
By:Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Director General Kano State Agency for the Control AIDS (KSACA), Dr. Usman Bashir said, the agency has secured slots for People Living with HIV/AIDS, under the mass wedding scheme.
This was contained in a statement, signed by the public relations officer KSACA, Aminu Bello Sani and made available to Radio Nigeria in Kano.
The statement pointed out that, KSACA in collaboration with HISBA Board would provide all the necessary assistance to those living with HIV/AIDS, that are interested in joining the scheme.
Dr. Usman explained that, preparations have reached advanced stage, for the commencement of HIV/AIDS screening for the 1,800 intending couples, before the wedding.
The director general highlighted that,research indicates that, marriage between people living with HIV/AIDS, who are on m education can produce healthy babies free from the virus, through prevention of mother to child transmission techniques ( PMTCT).
He hinted that, Kano state has about 40,000 HIV/AIDS patients on medication, while efforts are being made to screen the outstanding 80,000, based on the current population projection, who will be enrolled on free medication as soon as they are diagnosed.
The Director General pointed out that, HIV/AIDS is gradually becoming like other ailments, due to the procurement of free drugs by the government, and other supporting partners.
Dr. Usman maintained that, Kano state government released funds to the agency to procure 3rd Line drugs (Salvage Line), used by people living with HIV/AIDS, which is usually provided by the Federal government, but currently unavailable nationwide.
He urged the public, to go for screening to know their HIV/AIDS status, as medication is available and free saying that, the virus is no longer deadly, if treated early and properly managed.
The director genetal commended Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf for his determination in ensuring effective healthcare delivery.