In an effort to ensure that Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is eradicated from Liberia by 2030, the National AIDS Commission (NAC) has stressed the need for resource mobilization and effective coordination of all aspects of the response.
Speaking at programs marking the official celebration of World AIDS Day in Monrovia recently, NAC Chairperson Theodosia S. Kolee said the institution under her leadership is ready to effectively respond to HIV/AIDS.
According to Kolee, UNAIDS in collaboration with NAC has targeted 2020 as the year to diagnose, place on treatment, and fully suppress the viral load of those living with HIV in Liberia by 90 percent.
The NAC Chair said these activities are enshrined in three goals and, as such, there is absolutely no chance of achieving them if Liberians do not take the bold step to test and know their HIV status, stressing: “Testing is a win-win scenario for all of us.”
This year’s World AIDS Day celebration was held under the global theme: “Know Your Status” and a national theme “Do Your HIV Test”.
She noted that the steps in achieving these goals is testing and diagnosing individuals living with HIV, noting: “If you are tested positive, you can be treated and live a healthy and normal life and have children who will be free from the virus.”
According to a NAC report, an estimated 40,000 persons are living with HIV in Liberia, down from 43,000 at the beginning of this year, which is good news for Liberia in the fight to eradicate the virus.
Kolee stressed that persons between the ages 15 to 49 live with the virus, mainly in Grand Bassa, Margibi and Montserrado counties, with Montserrado being the hardest hit.
She then applauded First Lady Clar Weah, UNAIDS, MOH, NACP, Nurses, Partners and all stakeholders for working with the commission in the response to HIV/AIDS in Liberia, noting that there is so much to be done in Liberia as far as fighting HIV is concerned.
World AIDS Day was first observed on December 1, 1988 to bring greater awareness to HIV, as well as to commemorate those affected by the disease.
LINA
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