Ada: The Ghana Health Service in Ada has urged the public to practise safe sex during the Easter festivities to prevent the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Isaac Coleman Adator, HIV Focal Person at the Ada East District Health Directorate, gave the advice in an interview, warning that risky sexual behaviour during festive periods could increase infections. "HIV is real, active, and present in Ada. If you choose to engage in sexual activity, protect yourself by using a condom," he said.
Mr. Adator cautioned against making assumptions about a partner's HIV status based on physical appearance. "You cannot determine someone's HIV status by how they look. Anyone can be infected," he stated. He explained that HIV might not show visible symptoms in its early stages, and sometimes for several years, making protection and regular testing essential.
Mr. Adator also advised that individuals who suspect exposure to HIV after unprotected sex should seek immediate medical attention. He said Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), a medication that could help prevent infection if taken within a short period after exposure, was available at health facilities. "We have medication known as post-exposure prophylaxis, which can help prevent infection if accessed early," he explained.
Mr. Adator, who also serves as a Ministerial Advisory Board Member for Health Training Institutions at the Ministry of Health and Assistant Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (Greater Accra Region), noted that festive periods often come with increased social activities. He warned that such occasions could lead to risky behaviours if individuals did not exercise caution. "HIV is real in Ada, active and aggressive, so everyone must take responsibility to protect themselves," he emphasised.
He urged the public to prioritise their health by practising safe sex, getting tested regularly, and seeking timely medical care when necessary.