The Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN) has distributed more than 200 HIV self-test kits to corp members volunteering in the Anti-HIV Community Development Service group in Abuja.
Prior to the distribution, the corp members who gathered at the Old Parade Ground in Abuja, received sensitization on the use of the kits. IHVN Senior Program Officer Prevention, Mr. Yaro Daniels said that “HIV self-test kits provide a user-friendly and easily accessible testing option as they can be completed at home or in private settings, eliminating the need for clinical visits and potential stigmatization. Many youths these days do not want to get tested for the fear of stigmatization,” he said.
He added that self-test kits offer an alternative testing method, reach individuals who may be reluctant or unable to visit healthcare facilities and those who might face barriers to accessing healthcare services such as key population. “This can lead to higher testing rates, and subsequently reduce the transmission of the virus. HIV self-test kits can provide a discreet and convenient testing option tailored to the specific needs of key population,” he said.
Anti-HIV Community Development Service Group Vice President, Mr. Basorun Abdul expressed his gratitude to IHVN for the practical sessions on the use of self-test kits. “We look forward to partnering with IHVN to ensure that people get tested and know their status,” he said.
Free HIV testing services were also provided to Corp Members at the event.
