The Lango sub-region has witnessed a significant increase in Viral Load Suppression (VLS) over the past five years,” stated recent reports. “The suppression rate has risen to 94 percent between 2018 and 2022, in contrast to the previous ten years when the sub-region struggled to surpass a viral load suppression rate of 85 percent.”
The statistics reveal a promising trend. “Out of an estimated 99,093 individuals between 2018 and 2022,” the report continued, “91,146 people are aware of their HIV status. Among them, 90,130 are on HIV treatment, and of those tested, 76,822 individuals, representing 94 percent, have achieved viral suppression.
” It was emphasized that “a suppressed viral load does not imply a cure for HIV, but rather that the amount of HIV in the body is very low and undetectable.”
Pamela Donggo, the Senior Technical Advisor (HIV) at JSI Projects in Africa, argued passionately, “Achieving viral load suppression is a critical step in combating the HIV pandemic in the country.”
She attributed the remarkable increase in the VLS rate to the implementation of Youth and Adolescence Programs (YAPs). According to Donggo, these programs “have encouraged HIV-positive adolescent youths to seek and adhere to medication.”
Donggo further stated, “We empowered the youth to take control of their health and future,” emphasizing the need to ensure “the availability and easy accessibility of HIV medication at all times.
” She also called for the implementation of “various Ministry of Health interventions and guidelines in the region.”
Hillary Okello, the Lira City HIV Focal Point Person, highlighted a significant challenge in achieving viral load suppression – poor health-seeking behavior among HIV-positive individuals.
He noted, “People don’t want to take their medication when they feel better,” which can be detrimental to their health.
Zainab Taleba, an advocate for Adolescent Girls and Young Children, shared her personal journey. She said, “By then it was challenging; I feared stigma,” but she has since successfully adhered to her medication and achieved viral load suppression. As a peer supporter, she actively participates in YAPs, helping other youths adhere to treatment.
However, concerning trends were noted among HIV-positive children. “Viral load suppression rates are lower among HIV-positive children,” warned Dr. Bernard Otucu, the Lira City Principal Health Officer.
He expressed concern about “the lower adherence rates among children compared to adults,” emphasizing the importance of consistent treatment.
According to the Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA) 2020-2021, the prevalence of VLS among adults aged 15 years and older living with HIV in Uganda is 75.4 percent.
Rates vary, with 78.3 percent among women and 69.8 percent among men. These statistics shed light on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead in the fight against HIV.