At least some 1,012 people living with HIV/Aids in Kwania district, northern Uganda have abandoned treatment.
According to records from the district health department, there are more than 70,000 people on anti-retroviral treatment (ART).
The failure of these patients to access treatment has been attributed to the ban on public transport and lack of food due to the ongoing coronavirus lockdown in the country. Health experts note that skipping or abandoning treatment affects the reduction of the viral load and protection of the immune system.
Juliet Ajwang, who is living with HIV, says she stopped taking her medication a week ago because she is now surviving on one meal a day. She wants government and well-wishers to come to her rescue and provide relief food to save her from hunger.
“The last time I took my medication without food, I became dizzy, weak and reduced my strength, making me feel like vomiting. I had to stop for as long as there is no food.”
Sam Fang Omara, the Kwania HIV focal person observed that several clients on ARVs are not regularly taking their medication. He says that some patients have complained to him that they can't continue with the treatment without food.
Salim Komakech, the Kwania District COVID-19 Taskforce chairperson says the HIV clients could have benefited from the food distribution but the number of people seeking relief is overwhelming the district.
“My office has received food relief from the government to support the vulnerable groups especially patients but we cannot help everyone.”
Bazil Okello Onac, the Kwania LC V chairperson has tasked the vulnerable groups to seek medical assistance where necessary and urged security personnel to permit people living with HIV to travel to health facilities to pick the drugs.