Experiences and challenges in provision of CT to young people-Presentation at KAPC conference

EXPERIENCES AND CHALLENGES FACED IN PROVISION OF COUNSELING AND TESTING TO ADOLESCENTS IN SCHOOLS IN ASEMBO, RURAL WESTERN KENYA:

 Amimo, B;; Ochoro F Nginja, E;; Adipo, D; Odongo, F; Obongo C,

KEMRI/ITM

Introduction:

Despite prevention measures, HIV prevalence still remains high among young people in Kenya. In a cross-sectional survey in Asembo in 2003/04, HIV prevalence among females aged 15-19 years was 9% and <1% among males the same age. Since 2003, KEMRI/ITM has been implementing a comprehensive youth program in Asembo to improve sexual and reproductive health of adolescents aged 10-20 years. We implement two youth HIV prevention curricula, Healthy Choices I and II, which promote learning ones HIV status and provide knowledge and skills to abstain or practice safer sex. We also provide youth friendly health services incorporating VCT, clinical services, recreational facilities, support groups for young people living with HIV/AIDS and vocational skills. We describe the experiences of offering VCT to in-school adolescents in Asembo.

Description:

We sought approval from the District Education Office to initiate VCT service in schools. We then conducted awareness and sensitization workshops for head teachers, teachers and parents. We identified and trained local youth from Asembo to offer VCT services and engaged them as peer counselors. Every week, 3 schools are visited with youth friendly health services including VCT, health education and general clinical services. We provide both one-on-one and group counseling while testing is individual.

Issues:

Working with peer counselors and the integration of clinical services alongside VCT helped promote acceptability and uptake of VCT services among school adolescents. HC helped to inform adolescents of the need to visit a VCT site and know their HIV status. The tight schedule of schools limited the time allocated for health services. Despite formation and decentralization of support groups, only few adolescents who test HIV positive join these groups, and fewer disclose their status. The national VCT guidelines recommend that parental permission be obtained before offering VCT to minors.

Conclusion and Recommendations:

Further discussions should be held on how to involve   adolescents below 15 years, are   thinking of initiating sex or being in relationships without involvement of parents. The school administration and parents need to be consulted and involved in the design and implementation of VCT services in school settings. Use of peer counselors can promote acceptability and uptake of VCT services. More time and innovative strategies are needed to strengthen support groups of adolescents testing HIV positive.