NATIONAL CHILDHOOD TB TESTING WEEK 2024 LEADS TO LIFESAVING HIV DIAGNOSIS AND GBV CASE IDENTIFICATION IN SOKOTO
Sokoto State Ministry of Health's Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, in collaboration with implementing partners like HSCL, implementing the ACE 3 project in Sokoto and other organization, observed the National Childhood TB Testing Week from May 27th to June 2nd, 2024. This week aimed to provide essential health services to children, focusing on TB screening while also incorporating HIV testing.
The campaign kicked off with a flag-off ceremony and screening exercise at the Sokoto State orphanage home. Representatives from the health ministry, USAID partners, and the Leprosy Mission attended the event, showcasing a strategic collaboration for child health. The week continued with visits and screenings at primary and secondary schools, nutrition units, Almajiri schools, health centres, and internally displaced people (IDP)camps.
On May 31st, a routine TB screening at Sheik Gummi Memorial College in Sokoto revealed more than expected. With the support of both health workers and the school community, the event ensured all students received TB testing. Additionally, an optional HIV test was offered. A crucial turning point came when a 14-year-old boy consented to the HIV test, revealing a positive result.
Recognizing the importance of thorough follow-up, the HIV Testing Service (HTS) unit promptly initiated index testing to trace and test the student’s immediate contacts. As index testing progressed, the health team discovered an underlying and urgent issue— the student was a survivor of gender-based violence (GBV).
The ACE 3 project's comprehensive support framework proved crucial in this situation. The HTS unit prioritized the student's medical care, ensuring he received antiretroviral therapy (ART) and ongoing monitoring. Furthermore, they collaborated with local GBV support services to provide psychological counselling, legal assistance, and social support for both the student and his family.
This case exemplifies the power of integrated health services and community engagement. The collaboration with the TB and Leprosy Control Program allowed for the identification and treatment of broader issues beyond just TB. The HTS unit also worked with school authorities, community leaders, and GBV advocacy groups to create a support network for the students and raise awareness about HIV and GBV.
The successful identification and treatment of the student's HIV infection, combined with the support provided for his GBV case, highlight the effectiveness of the ACE 3 project's approach. This case also reflects the dedication of the HTS unit and its partners in addressing both immediate health needs and underlying social issues that impact overall health outcomes.
The collaborative efforts during the National Childhood TB Testing Week in Sokoto exemplify the profound impact that integrated health services can have on individual lives and the community as a whole. Through its partnership with the state program and other partners, the ACE 3 project has once again demonstrated its commitment to holistic and compassionate care, paving the way for a healthier and more resilient community in Sokoto.
