Men should accompany their wives for HIV tests, especially during pregnancy, to help reduce the spread of the virus, according to Dr. Modesta Vesonder, CEO of Katani Level 4 Hospital in Machakos County. This approach, she believes, will help couples become more aware of their HIV status, allowing them to take necessary precautions and access treatment on time. By doing so, the prevalence of HIV in Kenya can be reduced, as couples will be more proactive in safeguarding their health.
Dr. Vesonder emphasized that men, unlike women, often remain unaware of their HIV status, which poses a significant challenge in the fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic. In Kenya, HIV-related morbidity and mortality rates have increased between 2023 and 2024, as compared to five years ago. The doctor cautioned Kenyans to avoid reckless sexual behavior, particularly during the festive seasons like Christmas and New Year, when people may be more prone to risky activities.
Another major concern raised by Dr. Vesonder is the rise in mother-to-child HIV transmission in the country. Despite advancements in HIV prevention, many women still keep their HIV status a secret, particularly when they test positive during antenatal care. This secrecy, she said, is dangerous as it prevents spouses from taking necessary precautions, thereby increasing the risk of transmission within the household.
HIV/AIDS male champion, Paul Odhiambo, shared his personal experience of testing positive for HIV after accompanying his wife to a prenatal clinic. Odhiambo, who has lived with HIV for 16 years, explained how his wife’s HIV test led to both of them being tested. His story highlights the importance of joint testing, which not only helps individuals know their HIV status but also promotes shared responsibility in managing the disease.
Dr. Vesonder further pointed out that many people, particularly those from low-income communities, are hesitant to seek treatment, which could contribute to the rising HIV prevalence. However, she reassured that HIV is not a death sentence. Pregnant women who test positive for HIV during prenatal care are counseled and immediately started on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), which helps reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, preventing transmission to the baby. Babies born to HIV-positive mothers are given treatment and are advised to be exclusively breastfed for the first six months to prevent transmission.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and access issues, Kenya has made significant strides in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV. According to the National Syndemic Disease Control Council, thousands of men and women in counties like Machakos, Kajiado, and Nairobi are currently on ART, with many others benefiting from voluntary HIV counseling and testing services provided by healthcare facilities like Katani Hospital.
In Machakos County, 9,579 men and 21,466 women are on ART, while in Kajiado County, 5,776 men and 13,272 women are receiving treatment. Nairobi County has the highest number, with 58,460 men and 117,856 women on ART. These figures reflect the growing number of people seeking treatment, though the fight against HIV/AIDS continues to require more widespread awareness and proactive testing.
In conclusion, Dr. Vesonder’s message is clear: HIV testing should be a shared responsibility between partners, and men must be more involved in ensuring both their own and their wives’ health. Early testing, counseling, and treatment are key to reducing the transmission of HIV and improving the quality of life for those living with the virus.
