The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), has announced that it will commence the largest national AIDS survey in June 2018.
Director-General of AIDS, Dr Sani Aliyu, made the announcement at a news conference on “Nigeria AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey’’ on Thursday in Abuja.
Aliyu said the survey would be in collaboration with the United States Government, Global Funds, UNAIDS, Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organisation (WHO), among others.
He noted that the survey, which would last for six months would be conducted across the 36 states and the FCT, adding that it will determine the true distribution of HIV and Hepatitis B and C in the country.
“Members of households will be requested to take part in the survey to serve as a representation of the entire population in the selected communities.
“The survey will also offer household-based counseling and testing, as well as Hepatitis B and C testing.
“Those who test positive for any of the tests will be referred to suitable health facilities to receive appropriate services,” he said.
He further added that only individuals who voluntarily agreed to participate would be interviewed, with their blood sample tested under confidential environment.
Aliyu added that results from the survey would provide key information that would guide the government in planning and developing effective programmes to control HIV and Hepatitis in the country.
Speaking at the conference, Prof Isaac Adewole, Minister of Health, noted that the survey would provide precise data on the prevalence of HIV in the country.
Adewole, represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Mr Araoye Segilola, added that the results would aid the ministry to know the current rate of new infections, and would assist in the distribution of adequate HIV/AIDS kits and antiretroviral drugs.
He also appreciated the United States Government, Global Funds, UNAIDS, WHO, CDC, and other partners for supporting the implementation of the largest HIV survey in the world.
