13 Jun 2018

Parents have been advised to inform teachers about their children’s HIV status.

Speaking recently at a candlelight ceremony in remembrance of those who lost their lives due to HIV/AIDS, Diphalana Empowerment Centre coordinator, Mr Paul Englishman said not knowing pupils’ status put their lives in danger as some end up throwing away their medication.

Mr Englishman, who runs a Gathwane-based Non-Governmental Organisation dealing with youth issues, said consequently the child’s health worsened which led to poor attendance of classes and performance.

He also encouraged pastors to spread the HIV/AIDS message to their congregations.
A Lorwana Clinic nurse, Ms Kearoma Chifedi, encouraged those who recently enrolled for Anti-Retroviral Therapy to always inform their family members so that they could encourage them to take treatment without defaulting.

She said it was imperative for patients to take their medication on time and to also accept their health status.

Ms Chiefedi encouraged those on ARVs to eat healthy food and avoid foodstuffs that endangered their health.  

Ms Chifedi advised them to trust in God as He will give them the needed strength. Ends