The RHF team organized and conducted a simultaneous HIV testing and enrolment exercise for Vulnerable Children (VCs) over the course of 7 days. The first three days were dedicated to testing, while the remaining days focused on enrolment. This initiative was part of the ongoing effort to provide essential health services and support to vulnerable children in the target communities.
The testing process was carried out by trained HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) volunteers from BYSACA, with assistance from the RHF project team. Community Volunteers (CVs) played a vital role in mobilizing vulnerable children from various locations, ensuring they were brought to testing venues to facilitate a smooth process. The CVs were instrumental in raising awareness and ensuring that the children participated in the testing exercise.
The testing took place across various communities, starting in Otuoke, where the initial testing was conducted. Children from Emeyal I & II were transported to Otuoke for testing, and the exercise continued in the Kolo communities. The final leg of the testing took place in Ogbia main town on the third day. In total, 100 children (male and female) were tested during the exercise.
Of the children tested, only one male child in Otuoke tested positive for HIV. The child was immediately referred to the Otuoke health facility for treatment, and follow-up care was arranged to ensure that the child began treatment without delay. All materials used during the testing process, including HIV testing kits and documentation, were securely stored at the nearest primary health centers in each community to ensure easy access for future follow-ups and support.
This exercise not only helped identify children living with HIV but also ensured that they received timely care and treatment, contributing to their overall health and well-being. The successful coordination between the RHF project team, HCT volunteers, and CVs demonstrated the strong community involvement and collaboration necessary to address the health needs of vulnerable children.
