Abia State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, (ABSACA), has pledged to ensure that it will continue to carry out Free medical/ HTS outreaches across the 17 LGAs of the State in line with the mandate given by the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti.
The Director General of ABSACA Dr. Mrs. Uloaku Emma-Ukaegbu, who made the pledge recently at Eziukwu Ebemoha – Ohafia while rendering Free Medical/HIV Testing Services embarked upon by the Agency, said Dr. Alex Otti, values the health of Abians and non Abians domiciled in the State.
She said because of this, the Governor has approved and mandated that the Agency embark on regular Free Medical Outreach to achieve 95: 95:95: in line with UNAIDS target .This implies ensure that 95% of Abians know their HIV status, 95% of those positive are placed on treatment and 95% of those on treatment are virally suppressed.
The ABSACA boss and her team, who used the opportunity to embark on sensitisation of participants at the Outreach, counselled them on symptoms of HIV/AIDS, Malaria among others, charging them to feel free and make good use of the opportunity offered during the medical outreach, saying that this is the first phase of the programme.
She said, “It is important that you come forward and make good use of this opportunity provided by the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti who is poised to ensure that Abians and non-Abians stay healthy. I implore all present to come forward, tell us about your ailment and we will provide the right drugs and advise”.
The ABSACA DG, who commended members of the community for coming out to be part of the Free Medical Outreach noted that their action means they value their health and want to ensure healthy living just as she advised that regular check-up is key for one to stay healthy.
During the Free Medical Outreach, 14 pregnant women were given Mama kits while the exercise availed participants opportunities to ask questions regarding their health.
Communities that have benefited from the Free Medical/HIV Testing include: Umuariga Umudike, Oloko -Ikwuano, Umudiawa, Amaogwugwu -Umuahia North. Amaediaba Nkpa, Ogboko Ozuitem – Bende,
Umuagu Omoba -Isiala Ngwa South. Eziukwu Ebemoha -Ohafia LGA while 8 communities are remaining in the first phase of the exercise.
