Kisoro HIV/AIDS Survivors Advocate for Public Disclosure to Combat Stigma

KISORO – People living with HIV/AIDS in Kisoro district are urging fellow HIV/AIDS patients to openly disclose their statuses in order to avoid community stigmatization.

Mukanoheri Dinah, a survivor, emphasizes the reality of HIV/AIDS and underscores the importance of the community treating individuals with the virus with dignity, emphasizing that the virus knows no boundaries.

Dinah shares her personal experience of initially feeling ostracized by the community due to her HIV-positive status. However, she highlights the positive transformation in her life since publicly declaring her health status as AIDS positive. Dinah also offers advice to those who have not contracted the virus, urging them to abstain from engaging in sexual activities for pleasure with individuals whose health status is unknown or to use condoms consistently.

She emphasizes the significance of HIV/AIDS patients adhering to their antiretroviral (ARV) medication as prescribed by medical professionals for a sustained and healthier life with the virus.

CUE IN DINAH….ON STIGMA….RR//

Mugisha Sison, the Kisoro district HIV/AIDS Focal person and district drug inspector, reports that the health department is actively working to enhance prevention services, conduct sensitization programs, promote safe male circumcision, and expedite health service delivery. These efforts aim to strengthen the district’s commitment in the ongoing fight against AIDS.

CUE IN MUGISHA….ON MEASURES….ENG//