By Catherine Chasepa
Zvishavane based community health nurse Josiah Mutsika has revealed that the local council and public hospital are actively providing both pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis to all residents to enhance public health by preventing HIV.
The initiative aims to provide comprehensive support for individuals at risk of HIV infection. PrEP is a preventive medication taken by HIV-negative individuals before potential exposure to the virus, while PEP is administered after possible exposure. The availability of these options marks a crucial step in reducing the incidence of HIV within the community which has high prevalence of the virus.
In addition to Prep , public health initiatives have expanded family planning options, which were limited, primarily focusing on oral contraceptives such as the pill. However, recent developments have introduced additional methods like Jadel, the UID loop among others, which are long-acting reversible contraceptive. This expansion of options is crucial for addressing diverse needs within Zvishavane community.
Despite these advancements, Zvishavane faces challenges in effectively reaching adolescents regarding PrEP and other family planning contraceptive methods. Mutsika emphasized the importance of media practitioners to engage adolescents through social media platforms to educate them and bridge this gap, ensuring they are informed about their options for sexual health.
“Media practitioners must leverage social media to connect with adolescents, making sure they understand their sexual health choices,” Mutsika stated.
To further enhance contraceptive access, the Zvishavane community has partnered with the Zimbabwe Maternal and Child Health Foundation (ZMPF). This collaboration focuses on providing a range of contraceptive methods—long-term, short-term, and permanent—to both rural and urban residents. Mutsika confirmed that there is currently no shortage of contraceptives available in the area.
As stated by Mutsika, “We are committed to ensuring that every woman has access to the contraceptive method that best suits her needs.”
Women in Zvishavane have shown a positive response to long-term prevention methods. Many prefer these options over traditional pills due to the convenience they offer; unlike daily pills, long-term methods provide freedom from the worry of forgetting to take medication regularly.