Kakamega County, in collaboration with PATH, has launched a six-month preventive injection and drug program aimed at curbing the spread of HIV.
Chief Officer for Health, David Alila, and Chief Officer for Public Health, Rose Muhanda, are urging vulnerable populations to take up the medication to reduce the risk of infection and limit further transmission of the virus.
According to officials, Kakamega County has made significant progress in the fight against HIV, with infection rates dropping from 6% to 3%. Efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission have also improved, declining from 14% to 6%.
The initiative seeks to achieve a substantial reduction in new HIV infections, with the long-term goal of eliminating new cases entirely. However, health authorities cautioned beneficiaries against risky behavior, stressing that the drugs are not a substitute for responsible practices.
Community Health Promoters (CHPs) have been tasked with identifying vulnerable individuals and referring them to health facilities to access the preventive services. Authorities emphasised that the medication is targeted at high-risk individuals and will be provided free of charge.
The program is currently being implemented in four counties, including Kisumu and Kakamega. Health officials are seeking partnerships with other county governments to expand access to more health facilities and reach a larger population.
