Ugochukwu Iwuchukwu
The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, ACPN, Rivers State chapter, has tasked pregnant women to stop patronizing local and unregistered birth attendants across the country.
The Chairman of Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, ACPN, Rivers State Chapter, Donatus Ijezie stated this during an awareness campaign in commemoration of the World Aids Day celebration in Port Harcourt.
World Aids Day is celebrated every first of December to create awareness of the dangers of the HIV/AIDS virus.
Donatus Ijezie during the event said the activities of the local and unregistered birth attendants across the country is increasing the spread of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
He said that the awareness campaign is to inform pregnant mothers and expecting fathers to stop patronizing such people who are peddlers of the virus in the country.
Donatus Ijezie also called on pregnant mothers to seek medical care at registered health centers.
The Chairman of ACPN in Rivers State also advised Nigerians seeking blood transfusion to ensure that they are properly screened before accepting the blood.
He noted that many people have contracted the diseases through blood transfusion because the blood was not properly screened.
He said that Nigerians should avoid using unsterilized sharp objects like razor blade and clippers.
Donatus Ijezie during the HIV/AIDS awareness and sensitization exercise also advised Nigerians to know their HIV status by going for screening/test every six months.
He appealed to those living with the virus to always take their drugs as prescribed by the medical professional.
Our correspondent reports that the theme of the 2018 World Aids Day is ‘Know Your Status’.
