“Little Fingers” is a Special Report on HIV infection amongst babies and children in the state, which is possible through Mother to child Transmission. Statistics speak to babies contracting the virus and having to take Antiretroviral drugs from infancy.

The report curated by Inspiration FM’s senior health correspondent; IMA DEM, shows how women living with the virus are looking away from a potent intervention – Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV – PMTCT, due to stigmatisation and discrimination. This is further increasing the number of new infections in the state and putting more infants at risk.

“Little Fingers” is simply advocating the Anti stigma and discrimination law in Akwa Ibom to improve the HIV epidemic control. It is believed that with safe spaces for infected persons and even persons not infected, Akwa Ibom can cut back on new infections.

Statistics show that about 12,000 new infections were recorded in 2023 alone, over 3,000 infants and children are on treatment in Akwa Ibom ( data obtained by ECEWS; an organisation providing treatment and care interventions), as the numbers could be more, and over 160,000 residents are currently on treatment. Also research carried by another organisation; CCCRN reflects that discriminatory attitudes towards Persons living with HIV – PLHIVs in Akwa Ibom is high, buttressing a report by the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey – NDHS which reported that 61% of residents discriminate against infected persons.

Ending AIDS is the target, and part of the strategies to attain this is highlighted in this Special Report.

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