By Gift Mulenga, University of Zambia, International Relations student.
HIV transmission in Zambia occurs mainly through unprotected s£x, accounting for 90% of new cases, but also via contaminated needles, mother-to-child transmission and rarely, blóód transfusions. Understanding these pathways empowers informed choices to reduce risk.
Effective prevention strategies are widely accessible in Zambia. Condóms, available for free at clinics, significantly lower HIV transmission risk. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) prevents infection for high-risk individuals, while Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) works within 72 hours of exposure. Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) reduces HIV risk by 60%. VMMC plus correct and consistent use of condôms reduces the chance of HIV by 100%. For those with HIV, Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) improves health and, when viral loads are undetectable, prevents transmission (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
Testing is vital for HIV prevention and care. Free testing at over 2,000 clinics and self-testing kits offer quick, confidential results. Early diagnosis enables timely ART, improving health and reducing transmission. Zambia’s progress toward UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets (89% know their status, 87% on ART, 83% virally suppressed) is strong, but reaching the remaining 11% is critical.
There’s an OUWU app on Google where you can find counselors 24/7 to help you get correct information s£xually reproductive health and find support.
Every step; using condóms, accessing PrEP, undergoing VMMC, or getting tested helps build an HIV-free Zambia. Testing is simple and empowers individuals to protect themselves and their communities.
#HIVPrevention #TestForLife #UNESCO #SDG #KnowYourStatusZM #TestForLifeinternationalrelations#TogetherWeCanEndHIV #internationalrelations #HealthDiplomacy