Discipline in medication and strict adherence to instructions are said to be means to survive the HIV disease. This was the view of a medical professional in Port Harcourt, Dr. Abate Jollie in an interview with newsmen.
Dr. Jollie pointed out the HIV is not a death sentence however early diagnosis is the first step to administer effective treatment to the ailment. He called for more sensitization programme about HIV to tackle misconceptions and stigmatization associated with the disease.
Dr. Jollie advised Nigerians not to shy away from HIV diagnosis centres which are free to ascertain their status for immediate medical. “There are places one can access care. All teaching hospitals in Rivers State, including the University of Rivers State Teaching Hospital, primary health centres are places where one can be able to get tested.
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There are private hospitals also where one can receive treatment”, he said. He pointed out procedures of HIV therapy to include counselling section, preliminary investigation, organ tests. Dr. Jollie assured that the health care facilities across the nation are equipped to handle the issue of HIV effectively.
“The health care system we have in Nigeria, Rivers State in particular is equipped to manage HIV. Some of the drugs have side effects, so the psychological effects are managed by the mental health team”, he concluded. The medical practitioner stressed that one can still be a longtime survivor of HIV disease if he complies with the therapeutic procedure.
