Controlling HIV Cases in Indonesia: Importance of Cross-Sector Collaboration, Family Role and Health Workers

Surabaya (pilar.id) – Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a significant health problem in Indonesia. However, this virus can be controlled with the right efforts.

Dr. Arief Hargono, an Epidemiologist from the Faculty of Public Health (FKM) Airlangga University (Unair), explained that HIV cases in Indonesia are like an iceberg phenomenon.

“The stigma attached to HIV makes people afraid to check their status. This makes finding HIV cases difficult,” said Dr. Arief.

Cross-sector collaboration is needed to find HIV cases in the community. One of them is working with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) which have extensive networks for assistance and finding HIV cases for those who are at high risk of being exposed to the virus.

The role of the family is also very important in controlling HIV cases. Families are expected to have adequate knowledge about HIV, so as to reduce stigma and discrimination against sufferers.

“Even though HIV cases tend to occur in high-risk groups, it does not rule out the possibility of occurring in low-risk groups,” explained Dr. Arief.

Dr. Arief added that the understanding that is owned by the family can create a good environment for people with HIV. Families can provide emotional support and encourage HIV sufferers to seek treatment regularly.

Health workers also play an active role in HIV surveillance and prevention. They carry out regular monitoring of high-risk groups.

In addition, integrated counseling services are also the duty of health workers, such as mother-to-child HIV prevention counseling, integrated HIV testing and counseling services (PITC), and voluntary counseling conducted by the community (VCT).

The government is also expected to continue to develop policies and strategies in tackling HIV. Dr. Arief said that strategies can be focused on prevention, treatment, care, and community support for people living with HIV.

“Increasing access to care, availability of treatment, expanding services, and providing accurate information about HIV is very important,” he said.

Several programs such as ABCD (Abstinence, Be faithful, Condom, Drugs No) can be a way to prevent the spread of HIV.

These programs involve avoidance of untimely sexual intercourse, fidelity in relationships, use of condoms, and rejection of dangerous drugs.

By implementing these programs to the fullest, supported by risk communication, health promotion, and the right media, the number of HIV sufferers can be reduced.

In addition, HIV can also have significant cultural and social impacts. Therefore, a comprehensive strategy is needed to deal with this phenomenon.

The role of the private sector, government, academics, mass media, society and families is very important in reducing stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.

“By applying this multi-helix concept, it is hoped that HIV control can run optimally,” concluded Dr. Arief. (usm/hdl)