NACA to conduct National HIV/AIDS survey in June

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) on Thursday says the Federal Government of Nigeria in its continuous efforts to improve the health indices of its populace will be conducting the Nigeria AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS).

The survey, which starts mid-June to December, 2018 will also help to assess the uptake of HIV services at the population level and estimate the prevalence of HIV-related risk behaviours in the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“This is a national household survey that will determine the distribution of HIV and Hepatitis B and amp; C in the country,” the release states.

NAIIS will be implemented through close collaboration with state ministries of health (SMoH), state AIDS control agencies (SACA), donor agencies and implementing partners. It will involve conducting interviews and blood tests on voluntary participants who qualify to take part, in randomly selected households across Nigeria.

The agency further stated that members of these households will be requested to take part in the survey to serve as a representation of the entire population in the selected communities.

“NAIIS will offer household-based HIV counselling and testing, as well as Hepatitis B and C testing. Those who test positive for any of the tests will be referred to suitable health facilities to receive appropriate services.

“Only individuals who voluntarily agree to participate will be interviewed and have their blood sample tested in a confidential setting in their homes,”

However, the agency revealed that the results of the survey will provide key information that will guide the Government to plan and develop more effective programs to control HIV and Hepatitis in Nigeria leading to healthier individuals and families.

The Federal Government of Nigeria appreciates its various partners including the United State Government, Global funds to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, UNAIDS, WHO and other organizations who are supporting the implementation of this survey.

ANTHONIA OBOKOH