Health professionals have intensified their call for persons living with HIV (PLHIV) to consistently adhere to their antiretroviral (ARV) medication, emphasizing that this is the most effective path to achieving an ‘undetectable’ viral load and preventing the transmission of the virus.
Madam Irene Boateng, Head of Pharmacy at the Tema Manhean Polyclinic, highlighted this during the inception meeting for a new anti-stigma HIV project, stressing that current ARV medications are highly potent when taken as prescribed.
“When the viral load is undetectable, PLHIV cannot transmit the virus to others,” she said, referencing extensive research that supports this medical breakthrough. “Our goal is to get as many people as possible to this undetectable level.”
She noted that HIV-positive mothers who strictly follow their ARV regimen have delivered babies who test negative for the virus, underscoring the life-changing potential of these drugs.
Madam Boateng also addressed the critical role of regular viral load testing, which is conducted every six months to assess the effectiveness of the medication, ensuring that patients remain on track towards undetectability.
Breaking Stigma and Encouraging Disclosure
On the sensitive issue of disclosure, she clarified that couples are under no legal obligation to share their HIV status with religious leaders during premarital counselling.
“It is the legal right of couples to choose whether or not to disclose their status. That is why we do not even provide a written result to them,” she explained, adding that effective counselling can help couples make informed decisions about marriage and family planning without fear.
Madam Boateng expressed optimism that one day, PLHIV in Ghana would be as comfortable discussing their status as those in countries like South Africa, where stigma has been significantly reduced through widespread public education and support.
Intensifying Advocacy to Reduce Stigma
Mr. Ernest Amoabeng Ortsin, Executive Director of Unisphere Alliance, highlighted the pressing need to combat stigma, which remains a significant barrier to effective HIV prevention and treatment.
As part of the Global Fund Cycle Seven (GC7) initiative, his organisation is leading a nationwide project to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage voluntary testing.
“Stigma leads to silent transmission. If people fear coming forward for testing, they can unknowingly spread the virus,” he warned, pointing to the example of South Africa and Botswana, where high prevalence rates have fostered a more open attitude towards living with the virus.
Madam Joanna Anorkor Lartey, Tema Metro TB/HIV Coordinator, urged faith-based organisations to encourage their members to participate in voluntary testing, noting that early detection remains the first critical step in managing HIV and preventing its spread.
“We need to create a supportive environment where people are not afraid to know their status,” she stressed.
The anti-stigma campaign aims to break down barriers and promote a more compassionate approach to HIV prevention and care, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against the virus.
