00:00Today, December 1st, marks the World AIDS Day, a global call to action to reflect on the toll of HIV AIDS and reaffirmed commitment to ending the epidemic.
00:13This year's theme is overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response, highlighting the need to rebuild and strengthen HIV prevention, testing and treatment services that were disrupted in recent years.
00:28Today, we take a closer look at how the virus affects Africa and Nigeria, the progress made and what must be done to prevent new infections.
00:41HIV remains a significant public health challenge in Africa.
00:45According to the United Nations AIDS, over 40 million people are living with HIV worldwide, with more than two-thirds in sub-Saharan Africa.
00:55In Nigeria alone, the adult HIV prevalence rate stands at 1.3%, with about 1.9 million Nigerians living with the virus, including roughly 160,000 children.
01:09Some states like Rivers, Benue and Akwaibom record particularly high numbers, highlighting regional disparities.
01:20Despite these challenges, awareness and treatment programs have made a real difference in many communities.
01:26One of the most encouraging developments is the expanded access to antiretroviral therapy, ART.
01:36Today, around 1.6 million Nigerians living with HIV are receiving treatment, allowing many to live longer, healthier lives.
01:47Preventing HIV remains a priority and here is what Nigerians have to do.
01:52Number 1. Ensure you go for regular testing, because by knowing your HIV status is the first step in protecting yourself and others.
02:03Number 2. Safe sexual practices. Consistent use of condom can dramatically reduce transmission risk.
02:12Number 3. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission.
02:16Surprisingly, surprisingly, and even pleasantly, there is ART for pregnant women living with HIV, and this can prevent passing the virus to newborns.
02:27Number 4. Education and stigma reduction.
02:32Communities are advised to inculcate open conversations about HIV and also encourage testing, treatment, and support.
02:42Number 5. Creating more access to health care services.
02:47By creating sustained access to ART and support, ensures people living with HIV remain healthy and non-infectious.
02:57On this World AIDS Day, the message is clear.
03:01Get tested, practice safe sex, support treatment access, and educate your community.
03:07As we remember those we have lost to HIV AIDS, we also celebrate those living with this disease and recommit to compassion, action, and awareness.
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