HIV/AIDS vaccine?

Yes, you read it right, we were all informed or rather had come to live with the fact that there was no cure for it, that’s why it seemed those who got the disease had a dead sentence hanging on their heads. You’d agree with me that finding a solution to HIV/AIDS has been like a long walk to freedom, in the words of the late iconic figure Nelson Mandela, fondly called “ Madiba” . Producing a vaccine or an ultimate cure is still a struggle scientists and medical people are battling with and one can only hope that one day we will conquer.

The question is, why is it so difficult to get a cure for HIV/AIDS? even COVID-19 that came yesterday and held the world handicapped got a few vaccines produced in its account. While we seek answers or probably may never get to have those answers we seek, it’s important to engage in practices that ensure our safety and also remember to be kind to those who might have contracted the disease one way other the other. HIV/AIDS still has no cure but people living with it can live longer than those with hypertension and diabetes, it all bolts down to how well an individual pays attention to their health and religiously take their medications (ARVS).

In 2022 approximately 1.3 million people newly got infected with HIV and globally 39 million people are living with the disease. HIV/AIDS is still a public health issue, and the available measures are not sufficient to contain it, therefore creating awareness can never be too much.

Now let’s remind ourselves, sexual contact isn’t the only way to contract HIV

Here are some other ways:

1. Sharing injectables and sharp objects
2. Coming in contact with blood and fluids from an infected individual especially if you have a cut or wound
3. A health care professional getting pricked with a needle from an infected client.
4. Mother-to-child transmission, during pregnancy and delivery. So much investment has been made in this area so it has greatly reduced.

How to stay protected

1. Avoid multiple sexual partners and make sure to use protection if you suspect anything.
2. Avoid sharing sharp objects like razors, shaving sticks and barbing machines, try as much as possible to get your own self-care items.
3. As a health care professional, make sure to use preventative measures and avoid recapping used needles.
4. Avoid being drunk in late night parties where you might be in danger and unaware of your environment.
5. If you must help someone who is hurt, ensure you’re well protected. (Love your neighbor as YOURSELF).

The first step in staying protected is knowing your HIV status. When last did you get tested?

The requirement is every 6 months if you’re not sexually active and every 2 months if you’re sexually active. What are you waiting for, go ahead and get tested today.

Seeking for professional help? HCI Healthcare is at your doorstep. Give us a call today.

Written By:
Rebecca Adeleke-Adesanmi, BSc. Nur., MA, Healthcare Mgt.
Health & Wellness Advocate.

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