In an endeavor to curb the spread of the virus in the country, Ghana has launched a self-testing program for HIV.
On Tuesday, July 20, 2023, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) launched the program.
The HIV Self-Testing device will allow Ghanaians to self-test at home and access counseling and treatment services.
The kit is simple to use and yields results in twenty minutes. Additionally, it is confidential and discreet.
The program seeks to increase HIV testing and diagnosis, particularly among key populations and young people who may be stigmatized or discriminated against.
It also aims to reduce the number of undiagnosed HIV carriers and prevent new infections.
The GHS estimates that there are 342,307 HIV-positive individuals in Ghana, of whom 71% are aware of their status and 64% are receiving treatment. The national prevalence of HIV is 1.7%, with regional and district-specific variations.
The GHS has urged Ghanaians to utilize the HIV Self-Testing program and determine their HIV status.
It has also ensured that the packages are safe and reliable, and that sufficient quantities are available for distribution.