NAN-HG-5
HIV/AIDS
By Mercy Obojeghren
Asaba, Dec.7, 2016 (NAN) The Delta Government says it has embarked on aggressive awareness campaigns to various higher institutions on prevention of HIV/AIDS in the state.
The State Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Asupa Forteta, made this known on Wednesday at the ministerial press briefing organised by the state Ministry of Information in Asaba.
He said that the campaigns were being carried out in collaboration with the State Action Committee on AIDS (SACA) and the World Bank.
Forteta said that a total of 13, 585 condoms were distributed to students in the institutions.
According to him, 6,565 condoms were distributed to male students, while 7,020 condoms were given to their female counterparts.
He said that apart from the condoms, the students were also counselled and tested to know their HIV/AIDS status.
“No fewer than 5,244 youths were tested and counselled on HIV/AIDS.
“Those who tested positive were referred to the nearest comprehensive site treatment and action managers in the local government areas were also contacted,’’ Forteta said.
On the impact of the campaigns, he said that more awareness on HIV/AIDS have increased among youths in the state
He said the campaigns had also increased the use of condoms by sexually active youths, adding that it has help in reducing the prevalence of HIV infection.
The commissioner said that the ministry generated N4.079 million between December 2015 and November as internally generated revenue, and projected to generate N3 million in 2017. (NAN)
MOA/OIF/GOK
Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Olagoke Olatoye