Uganda at crossroads over surging HIV infections, action needed!

Recently, we have come to know that Mbarara City grapples with a silent but formidable adversary a rising HIV prevalence with over 440 new HIV infections this year alone according to the Mbarara district HIV focal person, Nahabwe Chris (NP).

Perplexing question: Are we failing to prevent or are the measures not feasible anymore? The problem of HIV in Mbarara City is not just Mbarara’s problem. It’s like a big shadow that can spread to other parts of Uganda. This is a warning for all of Uganda. If we don’t do something about it, the numbers could go up in other places too. We need to understand that what we do in Mbarara is important for the whole country. It’s like a wake-up call telling us to act now, or soon, HIV could become a big problem everywhere in Uganda, not just in Mbarara.

What could be the causes?

• Limited Awareness and Education: Lack of comprehensive knowledge about HIV and preventive measures is a significant contributor. Many individuals may not fully understand how HIV spreads, leading to risky behaviors that facilitate transmission.
• Stigma and Fear: Stigmatization of HIV-positive individuals can drive the virus underground. Fear of judgment or discrimination may deter people from getting tested or seeking necessary healthcare, fostering an environment where the virus can spread unchecked.
• Unequal Access to Healthcare: Disparities in access to healthcare services, particularly in remote areas, can hinder timely testing, counseling, and treatment. Limited resources may also affect the availability of preventive measures, exacerbating the transmission risk.
• High-risk Behaviors: Engaging in high-risk behaviors, such as unprotected sex and sharing needles, can significantly contribute to the transmission of HIV. 
• Societal Norms and Practices: Cultural norms and practices may inadvertently contribute to HIV transmission. These could include traditional practices that involve the sharing of sharp objects or norms that discourage open discussions about sexual health.
• Economic Factors: Economic disparities can impact the ability of individuals to access preventive measures. Lack of resources may lead to a higher prevalence of risky behaviors, contributing to the overall transmission of HIV.

What we need to do

• Community Engagement and Education: The first pillar of defense lies in education that penetrates the very fabric of Mbarara’s diverse communities. Comprehensive awareness programs, ranging from school curricula to marketplace campaigns, must dispel myths, address stigma, and provide clear, concise information about prevention methods. Community involvement is key, making the dissemination of knowledge a collective responsibility.

• Accessible Healthcare Services: Strengthening the healthcare infrastructure is paramount. The expansion and enhancement of healthcare services, particularly in remote areas of Mbarara, guarantee that testing, counseling, and treatment are readily available. Mobile clinics and outreach programs can bridge the geographical divide, ensuring that no one is left behind.
• Empowering Women: A significant facet of transmission occurs through mother-to-child channels. Empowering women with knowledge and resources becomes imperative. Initiatives focused on maternal health, family planning, and ensuring access to antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy can significantly reduce vertical transmission. By lifting the veil of vulnerability, we create resilient foundations.
• Innovative Technology Solutions: The digital era offers unprecedented opportunities for intervention. Embracing technology is not merely an option but a necessity. Mobile health applications, telemedicine, and other tech-driven solutions can be instrumental in overcoming barriers to healthcare, providing timely information, and supporting those at risk.
• Collaborative Partnerships: The battle against HIV requires a united front. Collaborative partnerships between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities can synergize efforts, pool resources, and amplify impact. By fostering a sense of collective responsibility, we create a formidable alliance against the epidemic.

This battle transcends mere medical intervention; it demands a societal commitment to transformative change. Are we prepared to break free from the chains of ignorance, embrace the fundamentals of prevention, and script a narrative of hope, awareness, and unity against HIV in the country? The answer lies not just in statistics but in the collective will of the people. Let this be the moment the country turns a new page, forging a resilient community against the shadows of HIV.

The writer; Wejuli Junior Mike, is a Research Assistant at Makerere University School of Public Health.