Ministry Launches Toolkits for Early Infant HIV Diagnosis
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, through the National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and STIs Control Programme (NASCP), has introduced the Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) Optimisation Toolkits in Nigeria.
During the launch in Abuja, the nation’s capital, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized the toolkit’s role in improving pediatric Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) services.
The National Coordinator, NASCP, Adebobola Bashorun, who represented Prof. Pate, highlighted the collaborative effort involving NASCP, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), and the Ministry.
“The EID Optimization Toolkit is positioned as a valuable resource, addressing not only EID programme indicators but also enhancing overall care for mothers, infants, and families.
“The successful application of the Programme Optimization Approach in the EID Point of Care (POC) project laid the foundation for this development, with active contributions from health facilities fostering a collaborative environment.
“Early outcomes showcase positive impacts on program indicators, affirming the toolkit’s effectiveness”. He said.
Prof. Pate emphasized that lessons and tools presented hold potential for broader applications in elevating the overall quality of healthcare services.
He said the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for partners and stakeholders is reiterated, aligning with the national framework and focusing on scaling up plans.
The Minister outlined plans for broader implementation across states, involving state government representatives and program coordinators.
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Addressing challenges in pediatric HIV coverage, he highlighted ongoing efforts to improve early infant diagnosis and reduce transmission rates, showcasing the nation’s proactive approach to enhancing healthcare outcomes.
The Country Manager, EGPAF, Dr. Avese Torbunde, expressed gratitude for collaboration and emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships in achieving successful results.
She urged the media, partners, and the government to ensure the continued impact beyond the project’s completion.
Acknowledging support from sponsors, particularly the US CDC and Johnson & Johnson, Dr. Torbunde urged donors to identify gaps, allocate targeted funding, and actively engage in supporting Nigeria’s efforts to achieve epidemic control.
“The dissemination meeting focused on scaling up the strategies discussed during the projects, I urge the media, individual partners, and the government to take up the responsibility of ensuring the continued impact and benefits beyond the project’s completion.
“While progress has been made in Nigeria towards epidemic control, there is still much work to be done”. She added.
The Director General, Taraba State AIDS Control Agency, (TSACA), Dr. Garba Danjuma, explained that the toolkit’s launch will bolster the state’s pediatric HIV response.
Highlighting support from the EGPAF Project, he spoke on efforts to sustain the response as external partners exit, showcasing Taraba State’s commitment to maintaining a positive trajectory in their HIV response.
“Taraba State aims to refine its approach to pediatric HIV, ensuring a targeted and efficient response that optimizes resources.
“Taraba, with the fourth-highest HIV prevalence in Nigeria, has shown significant improvement over the years. However, the pediatric HIV response demanded specific attention, as data revealed children were left behind in achieving success”. He added.
Dr. Danjuma’s dedication to sustainability reflects a proactive approach, laying the groundwork for continued success in the fight against HIV in Nigeria.
SOURCE: VON
