Nairobi – In a significant milestone for public health, Migori County has celebrated the graduation of 267 HIV-exposed infants who have remained free of the virus. This event, marking World AIDS Day, offers renewed hope for a future free of HIV transmission.
According to Kenya News Agency, Migori County’s Focal Person for Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMCT), these infants were born to HIV-positive mothers who diligently ensured their babies’ viral suppression. Addressing the public at Awendo Green Park, Odera confirmed that these infants, having consistently tested negative, will now join the general population. She emphasized the county’s commitment to providing psychosocial support to HIV-positive pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
Migori County’s mother-to-child transmission rate currently stands at five percent. With the assistance of organizations like the Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB), the county aims to achieve zero mother-to-child transmission by 2027. Julius Nyerere, Migori County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Services, called on the community to lead the fight against new HIV infections and mother-to-child transmission.
Nyerere highlighted the county’s success in reducing the HIV prevalence from 14.7 percent to 10.4 percent over the past three years. Despite being one of the top five counties in Kenya with a high HIV prevalence rate, these efforts indicate positive progress. He urged the community to continue these efforts in reducing HIV prevalence and transmission.
The CECM also stressed the importance of regular HIV testing for residents and prompt transition to treatment where necessary. Benson Onyango, a representative from the Catholic Medical Mission Board, elaborated on the organization’s role in supporting HIV-positive mothers to ensure their infants remain HIV-free.
CMMB is implementing a global funds program, funded through the Kenya Red Cross Society, to enhance healthcare services awareness and demand at the community level, particularly for people living with HIV. The program also focuses on men in high-risk occupations such as boda boda riders, cane cutters, and gold miners in the county.
Peter Gwengi, Executive Director of Lake Victoria Initiative and an HIV survivor for 30 years, emphasized the community’s role in addressing the HIV challenge. He specifically pointed out the rise in new infections during the December festivities, urging youth to take responsibility for their health. Gwengi also recommended that those living with HIV undergo screenings for non-communicable diseases to preempt any complications, noting that Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of death among the HIV-positive aging population.