THE Ministry of Health in Samfya District has disclosed that 7,400 people are living with HIV.
Speaking during the commemoration of the National HIV Testing, Counseling and Treatment (HTCT) day in Chipako Village on Monday, Samfya District Health Director Kelvin Sinkala who was represented by Zaccheus Lungu said out of the 7,400 about 5,600 people are on HIV medication.
Mr. Sinkala observed that it is saddening some people still do not want to know their HIV status despite it being done confidentially and free.
“Look at Chipako village, it has a population of about 3,600 but only 41 people have undergone the HIV testing,” he said.
Mr. Sinkala noted that the district is up to date on the necessary requirements that one needs to know about their HIV status.
Meanwhile, Samfya Mayor James Kapilila who was represented by the District Administration Officer Lawrence Kalonga encouraged the public to be tested for HIV.
Mr. Kapilila noted that government is committed to ensure that the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS move in tandem.
“The only way to know your HIV status is by getting tested as it is the powerful information needed to keep you and your partner healthy,” he said.
And a person living with HIV Exildah Kasabe disclosed that being HIV positive is not a death sentence but a different chapter of one’s life.
Mrs. Kasabe stated that she has been HIV positive since 2007 and started taking medication in 2008.
“I just came to accept it and started taking my medication and until now I am fit and able to do hard jobs, making me to live a normal life like any other person in the village,” she said.
Mrs. Kasabe further encouraged the people in her village not to be shy but go to any health facility to know their HIV status.
