HIV and Aids Prevention Campaign and Wellness Clinics Report

Abstract

This report covers the events of a one day HIV&AIDs Campaign and wellness Clinic held on Wednesday 8th June, 2016 at Embu University College. The Campaign aimed to sensitize all members of staff and their families on HIV and AIDs prevention as well as healthy living. The plenary session registered 146 participants comprising 140 EUC staff members and 6 facilitators, the Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) 69 participants, Body Mass Index (BMI) Clinic 97 participants, Diabetes Check 100 participants and Hypertension Clinic 84 participants. The facilitators were trained counsellors and clinicians drawn from the Ministry of Health - Embu Level 5 Hospital and TENRI Children’s’ Hospital. In the opening meeting different speakers underpinned the importance of knowing one’s HIV/AIDS status by having regular medical checkups. It was noted that whereas lifestyle diseases are not stigmatized, they are potentially life threatening. Two facilitators presented two sessions where they sensitized staff on HIV and AIDs treatment and prevention. The adherence to the prescribed antiretroviral therapy (ART) was emphasized. Participants were encouraged to put the knowledge they acquired into practice. After the opening meeting, all participants convened for a health break and visited the clinics in shifts to avoid leaving the work stations unattended. According to the clinicians, most of the tested parameters were within normal range except for the high BMI that was observed among EUC staff members. High BMI will eventually translate to higher medical bills for the individuals and ultimately the organization. To address the high BMI, It is recommended that EUC puts in place a comprehensive exercise and nutrition program for the staff.