HIV/AIDS: WHO guidelines for key populations
AIDS/HIV, continues as a major global health issue, already has claimed almost 33 million lives globally so far
AIDS/HIV, continues as a major global health issue, already has claimed almost 33 million lives globally so far.
There were an estimated 38 million people living with HIV at the end of 2019.
Among the millions nearly 40 to 50 percent of all new infections are within the key population, according to Data of Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS.
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To remain informed and take all the precautionary steps to prevent the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the World Health Organization (WHO) has provided guidelines with the necessary steps.
Guidelines
The guideline advices the key population to use condoms consistently with condom-compatible lubricants to prevent sexual transmissions of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The guidelines also reminds its readers that oral pre and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is made available to the global population in the case of HIV exposure.
The WHO also recommends sterile needles and syringes for those who are dependent on opioids and other substances. The offer to have opioid substitution therapy and evidence-based interventions have also been made accessible to those who require assistance.
Voluntary HIV testing and counselling (HTC) done regularly in both community and clinical settings should be offered for the global population, advocates WHO. Testing and counselling could raise self-awareness and aid with care and treatment.
Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), a combination of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs that maximizes the suppression of the HIV virus and terminates the progression of HIV disease, should be made accessible to the key population states the World Health Organization.
Expecting women in the key population should also be provided services for prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) similar to those women in other populations.
To prevent HIV among the key population, routine screenings which include cervical cancer screenings, diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections will help the community immensely.
Abortion laws and other policies must reviewed and revised for any discriminatory laws says WHO.
Health services should be made available and accessible to all living with HIV so that they are able to experience a full life with acceptance and live in a community which is empowered.
