2nd October, 2013
Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN) said it had treated and administered anti-retroviral drugs to 169,962 people living with HIV and AIDS in the country between January and July.
This is contained in a statement issued by the institute’s Head of Communication Unit, Mr Dennis Mordi in Abuja on Wednesday.
The statement noted that the funding for the treatment and drugs were provided by the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
According to the statement, the institute initiated ‘Action-plus up’ project which focuses on giving treatment to adults and children, laboratory diagnosis, tracking of patients status, and other support.
“IHVN implements several activities aimed at building the capacity of healthcare providers and auxiliary workers in HIV and AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and cancer prevention, management, control.
“The institute has now expanded its services to other infectious diseases like TB and malaria.
“IHVN is structured to develop and maintain linkages with local and international organisations on ways that support the government of Nigeria’s health sector strategic plans,’’ it said.
According to the statement, the institute had 139 sites it was supporting through a programme: “Action in Community –Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission” and at least 3,389 pregnant women had received prophylaxis (treatment for preventing disease).