The Director General of the Taraba State AIDS Control Agency, TACA, Dr Bako Ali Istifanus says the dream of breaking the cycle of HIV transmission and achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030, can only be actualized when children’s health is prioritised.
Making the assertions on Monday during the 2024 World AIDS Day celebration in Jalingo, he said efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, in the state, have made significant progress in recent decades.
He noted that comprehensive healthcare, early testing, access to antiretroviral therapy, and preventive measures are essential to safeguard the next generation.
He also called for renewed commitment from governments, healthcare providers, and communities worldwide, emphasising that children are at the heart of the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“By ensuring they receive the care and support they need, we can break the chain of transmission and build a future free from this epidemic.”
Emphasizing that children remain a vulnerable population in the HIV response, he said stopping HIV among children, requires deliberate actions, including early testing, Prevention of Mother-to-Child transmission, PMRCT, access to pediatric antiretroviral therapy and community education.
Supporting the position of Istifanus, the Commissioner of Health, Dr Bordiya Buma, said the health sector in the state has undergone a remarkable transformation, particularly in facility repositioning and upgrades for better performance.
Prioritizing children’s health key to eliminating AIDS by 2030 – TACA
