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May 8, 2023

May 8, 2023 IFMUYONEWS

Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, (ASWHAN) Calls for HIV Anti Stigma Law in Akwa Ibom

***Highlight benefits of Bill
***Appeal to Gov Udom Emmanuel to sign the Bill.

By Ima Dem

The Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, (ASWHAN) Akwa Ibom State chapter has amplified its stance that the stigmatization and discrimination of people living with the HIV will continuously ruin the epidemic control efforts.

Coordinator of ASHWAN in the state, Mrs Rachel Ignatius stated this when she appeared as a guest on Inspiration FM’s Health Break programme; Health Break.

“If this law is being signed, it will go a long way to check the spread of HIV in Akwa Ibom State. It is not funny to be HIV positive in a state whereby you don’t have any law that is backing you up” She said.

She also narrated how the absence of the law messed up a legal matter that a PLHIV instituted against an individual for defamation of character

“We are talking about zero new infection by 2030 and this is 2023, we are still having new babies born with HIV. Had it been this law is in place, it would have gone a long way to check the spread”.

Recall that in October 2021, the Akwa Ibom state house of Assembly passed the HIV Anti-stigma and discrimination bill to the State Executive, His Excellency Udom Emmanuel for his assent.

In the same vein, Coordinator of the Association of Positive Youths in Nigeria, (APYIN) Akwa Ibom State Chapter Mr Churchill Kingsley specified some challenges encountered by the youths living with the virus, the prominent being dealing with stigma.

The provisions in HIV/AIDS, Anti-stigma and Discrimination Bill are aimed at prohibiting the stigmatization and discrimination of persons living with HIV and also to regulate the practice of HIV and AIDS counseling and testing.

Investigations have shown that stigma among youths, pregnant women, amongst others have contributed to the prevalence of HIV in Akwa Ibom State.

May 6, 2023

May 6, 2023 IFMUYONEWS

Akwa Ibom Joins the World to Celebrate the World Hand Hygiene Day

World Hand Hygiene Day is observed every year on May 5th to raise awareness about the importance of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. This year, on May 5th, 2023, the world has once again come together to celebrate this significant day and remind everyone about the importance of hand hygiene in our daily lives.

Hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections, including the common cold, flu, and COVID-19. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that practicing proper hand hygiene could prevent up to 50% of infections.

The theme for World Hand Hygiene Day 2023 is “Clean hands for all, everywhere.” The theme highlights the need for everyone to have access to clean water and soap to wash their hands properly, especially in developing countries where access to clean water and sanitation is limited.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the critical importance of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infections. The virus spreads through droplets released when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. These droplets can land on surfaces and objects, which can then be touched by others. If people touch their face after touching these contaminated surfaces, they can become infected with the virus.

Regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective ways to remove the virus from your hands. If soap and water are not available, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also help to kill the virus.

On World Hand Hygiene Day 2023, people around the world are encouraged to take action to promote hand hygiene. This includes washing hands regularly, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands.

In healthcare settings, hand hygiene is even more critical. Healthcare workers are exposed to a higher risk of infection due to their close contact with patients who may be infected with various viruses and bacteria. Proper hand hygiene practices, such as handwashing and using hand sanitizers, can help prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings.

In conclusion, World Hand Hygiene Day 2023 is a reminder of the importance of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. It is a call to action for everyone to promote hand hygiene practices and to ensure that everyone has access to clean water and soap to wash their hands properly. By practicing proper hand hygiene, we can all play a role in keeping ourselves and others healthy and safe.

Written by;
Pharm Anderson Tony.
Chairman , association of community pharmacist of Nigeria, Akwa ibom state branch.
5th may, 2023.