The Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, has revealed that approximately 30,350 adults and children are currently receiving HIV/AIDS treatment in the state, with children accounting for 2% of this population.
Dr. Coker made this disclosure during a press briefing organized by the Ogun State Agency for the Control of AIDS, held at the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, to mark World AIDS Day.
This year’s theme, “Take The Right Path: Sustain HIV Response, Stop HIV Among Children,” highlights the need to prioritize children in HIV prevention and treatment efforts.
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of preventing mother-to-child transmission and ensuring children living with HIV have access to adequate care and treatment.
She urged the public to embrace preventive measures, including responsible sexual behaviour, condom use, and regular testing to determine their HIV status.
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“HIV/AIDS continues to pose a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, with an estimated 1.9 million people living with the virus as of 2020. In Ogun State, about 30,350 individuals are receiving HIV treatment, with children making up approximately 2% of this population”, she noted.
Dr. Coker also called for increased funding to sustain HIV programs, which she described as crucial to achieving the global goal of eradicating HIV/AIDS by 2030.
The Commissioner reiterated that combating HIV/AIDS requires a holistic approach that combines prevention, testing, treatment, and comprehensive support services.
She urged all stakeholders to work together to sustain progress and ensure no child is left behind in the fight against HIV.
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