Over 5, 000 on ARVs in Kazungula

MORE THAN 5, 200 people are on antiretroviral therapy out of over 9, 000 people estimated to be living with HIV/AIDS in Kazungula, says district health director Jodi Chondoka.

Dr Chondoka said the number has posted an increase of about 1, 500 from last year.

Dr Chondoka, disclosed this during an HIV/AIDS health campaign held in Mukuni village at the chief’s palace yesterday.

Dr. Chondoka added that the increase in number of people on ART can be attributed to the rolling out of universal testing and treatment with all health centres in the district providing the needed services.

He however, said a lot need to be done before the country achieves 9090-90 targets and urged everyone to know their status by testing regularly.

Dr. Chondoka added that the fight against HIV/AIDS is not a short race but rather a marathon that must be run with a laid out plan for each kilometre.

He also appealed to communities to stop stigmatising and discriminating people living with the virus.

And at the same event, Mongu Mayor Kusiyo Akayombokwa said he was impressed that Kazungula as a district has been able to reach out to many people through HIV service providers who have been working tirelessly to sensitise the communities and offer services on HIV/AIDS.

According to the 2010 population national census Kazungula has a population of more than 146, 000.