by Panshak Ibrahim
Five persons, who are victims of Boko Haram attacks have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, in their refuge-place at the Internally Displaced Persons’ camp in Maiduguri, Borno.
This was disclosed to journalists in Maiduguri on Wednesday, February 4, by the leader of a non-governmental organisation, the Business and Professional Women, Dr. Ismaila Watila.
He revealed that out of 1,000 people tested for malaria and HIV/AIDS in the camp, five persons tested positive for the virus.
Watila said: We are conducting free screening for IDPs on HIV, Malaria and other disease conditions. The programme is being conducted by the Business and Professional Women in conjunction with the National Agency for Control of Aids and the Sure-P.”
“We started on Monday and so far we have screened over 1,000 out of the 8,000 IDPs in the camp. Out of these, only five have tested positive to HIV/AIDS.”
“Statistically, the number appeared insignificant as it represents just about 0.5 per cent of those screened. But as a doctor, I see the number as alarming, because it is a dangerous trend.”
“What we do usually is to treat those who tested positive to malaria and other diseases immediately. Those who tested positive to HIV/AIDS will be counselled and transferred to the State Specialists Hospital for proper medication.”
“We also conduct education campaigns on the IDPs camps to enlighten them on how to play safe. The whole thing is to reduce the prevalence of disease condition in the camps.”
Watila added that the group decided to commence the programme at the NYSC Camp because it was the largest IDP camp in the state
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