The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), has taken a giant step towards the reduction of incidences of HIV in the state with the roll-out of free medical screenings and distribution of HIV testing /kits, hepatitis screening, tuberculosis checks, blood sugar tests, and mobile X-ray examinations to workers in the state.
The event was held at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, as part of activities marking this year’s Workers’ Day celebration in the state.
ANSACA officials, as part of their social service education, also distributed condoms, lubricants, and HIV self-testing kits, as well as proffered education on their proper use.
Speaking during the exercise, the ANSACA Managing Director, Dr Nkem Okeke raised concern over the state’s HIV prevalence rate of 2.4 percent, which is above the national average of 2.1 percent, stressing the urgency of intensified efforts to meet the 2030 target of zero new infections.
He described the initiative as a strategic platform to expand public health awareness in the state which would be sustained.
Over 2,800 test kits, he disclosed were deployed for the occasion, with additional supplies available if needed.
He noted that the strong turnout reflected increasing awareness and a decline in stigma, as many workers willingly participated in testing.
According to him, the exercise is in keeping with the commitment of the Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to secure the best health bargain for Anambra people, and ensuring that the burden of the diseases is reduced maximally.
“We are targeting the workers because they are a critical aspect of society, whose health is paramount for the effective functioning of the government.
“There are also plans to extend this initiative and more of its kind to other segments of society. Overall, it is about securing the health and lives of the Anambra populace,” he assured.
