From the left: Dumisani Khubheka and Muziwandile Gumede, who believe awareness and open conversations on HIV have led to the significant drop in positive cases. Photo by Zandile Khumalo
KNOWING your status and prevention remain a top priority for Mzansi.
This was revealed when Daily Sun spoke to residents of Randburg, north of Joburg, who reacted to Gauteng Department of Health spokesman Motaletale Madiba’s revelation that the province has shown a decrease in the HIV positivity rate among those aged 15 to 24.
Madiba reported this on Thursday, 12 September, stating that the HIV positivity rate decreased by 0,2 percentage points, from 1,3% during the 2022/2023 financial year to 1,1% during the 2023/2024 financial year.
He attributed the reduction to the implementation of preventative programmes such as PrEP.
When Daily Sun presented the figures to residents, their reaction was positive, with many praising the active prevention measures carried out by the community.
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“It’s good to see that people are more cautious now through protection, sticking to one partner, and using PrEP,” said Gladys Molea (28).
Gladys Molea believes knowing your status is top priority. Photo by Zandile Khumalo
Agreeing with Gladys, Muziwandile Gumede (49) and Dumisani Khubheka gave recognition to the amount of awareness that has been centred around HIV.
“HIV has become a topic that people aren’t shy to speak about and raise awareness on, and for us as residents. It’s a good thing because it means we’re able to start a conversation about our status but also offer support to those who are positive.
“Another thing we’re seeing is more people are treating HIV like any other sickness that needs medication. People take medication and put their health first,” the two men said.
Madiba reported that the department had exceeded its annual HIV targets for testing and treatment.
He said over 5,4 million HIV tests were conducted, surpassing the target of approximately 4,9 million for the 2023/24 financial year.
The achievement, according to Madiba, was supported by expanded HIV self-screening, index contact testing, community testing services, and various HIV awareness campaigns across the province’s five health districts.
He also highlighted efforts to prioritise prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission.
Due to targeted preventative care during antenatal visits, the HIV positivity rate among infants has been recorded at a low 0,2%.
Madiba emphasised the importance of adherence to antiretroviral treatment for adults living with Aids.
Zandile Khumalo
www.snl24.com
