Mr. Martin Mary Falana delivered an insightful lecture on HIV and AIDS awareness to the 2024 Batch B Stream II corps members at Keffi Camp. The session aimed to inform and educate the young participants on crucial aspects of HIV and AIDS prevention, treatment, and reducing stigma.
Falana began by explaining the difference between HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), while detailing modes of transmission such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, and mother-to-child transmission during childbirth or breastfeeding.
In discussing prevention, Falana emphasized safe sexual practices, including condom use, and the importance of regular HIV testing. He encouraged corps members to know their HIV status and seek timely medical care if they test positive. He also highlighted the significance of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for those at higher risk.
A major part of the lecture addressed the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS. Falana urged the corps members to treat individuals living with HIV with empathy and respect, and to become advocates for reducing stigma in their communities.
Falana further spoke on advancements in HIV treatment, noting that with proper care, individuals can lead healthy lives. He discussed the role of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in managing the virus and reducing the viral load to undetectable levels, thus preventing transmission.
The interactive session allowed corps members to ask questions and debunk myths and misconceptions about HIV and AIDS. Falana encouraged open dialogue and fostered greater understanding.
The lecture concluded with a call to action, urging corps members to use the knowledge they gained to raise awareness in their communities, contributing to the fight against HIV and supporting those affected by the virus.
English