City Celebrates World AIDS Day with 50,000 Assisted HIV Self-Tests and New Policies

As the globe observes World AIDS Day, the City has emerged as a frontrunner in the battle against HIV/AIDS, implementing innovative HIV and TB policies, and recording an impressive number of 50,000 assisted HIV self-tests in just a year and a half. With the theme for this year’s World AIDS Day being ‘Let communities lead,’ the City aligns perfectly with the National Department of Health’s stance on empowering and educating communities for prevention and management of HIV.

The City’s HIV programme employs various prevention strategies such as Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which have been significant in addressing the challenge of untested individuals, particularly among adolescent girls and young women. HIV self-screening (HIV SS) and Index Case Testing (ICT) are key components in bridging the testing gap.

The statistics between April last year and October 2023 point to a promising outreach, with 47,773 clients receiving assisted HIV SS, and of these, 825 tested positive. The City’s initiatives underscore the importance of reducing stigma and enhancing access to treatments. According to Councillor Patricia van der Ross, a member of the City’s mayoral committee for community services and health, these programmes not only extend treatment options and encourage HIV status checks but also support those who test negative to continue with preventive measures.

Moreover, since the introduction of PrEP at City Health Facilities two years ago, over 12,000 individuals have commenced treatment, with the flexibility to discontinue once no longer at substantial HIV risk.

In honor of World AIDS Day, the City is orchestrating various events, with the primary event taking place in Area North. Staff members will connect with informal settlements in Bloekombos, kicking off at 8 am on Friday, 1 December. These programs reflect the City's commitment to a holistic approach that not only involves stakeholders in biomedical responses but also addresses the pervasive social determinants impacting people living with or affected by HIV and TB.

The efforts extend beyond just treating the diseases, as Councillor Van der Ross highlights the need to combat social determinants and the stigma surrounding HIV and TB. This integrated approach is critical to the health and well-being of the community, providing a beacon of hope and progress.

Residents seeking more information on PEP and PrEP or those looking for resources can turn to the City’s dedicated health page for support and guidance.