The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Health officials are expressing concern over significantly high rates of HIV among sex workers and gay individuals.
According to a recent review of health data across various counties, officials have noted alarming HIV prevalence rates among these groups, reaching up to 18 times higher compared to the general population in some areas.
For example, in Garissa County, where the general HIV prevalence is 0.17%, around 18% of female sex workers (FSW) and 10.6% of men who have sex with men (MSM) are living with HIV.
Similar patterns are seen in Wajir (0.16% general prevalence), with 18.8% of FSW and 9.9% of MSM affected, and in Kiambu (2.27% general prevalence), where rates among FSW and MSM are 19.5% and 18.6%, respectively.
Nairobi shows even higher rates, with 23% of FSW and 28% of MSM affected, despite the general population prevalence being 4.3%.
These findings were compiled from 2021 routine program monitoring data to better understand the epidemic and its transmission dynamics at a regional level. This information aims to guide targeted responses to these specific populations.
The research categorizes 24 counties as having a concentrated HIV epidemic, characterized by low prevalence in the general population but high prevalence among key populations such as FSW and MSM.
This contrasts with the four counties identified as having a generalized epidemic, where HIV infections are predominantly through heterosexual contact in the general population. The remaining 19 counties exhibit mixed epidemic characteristics.
The study emphasizes the need for tailored HIV prevention and treatment strategies based on the epidemic type in each county, acknowledging that a uniform approach may not effectively address the diverse needs across Kenya.
