CLHIV: HFDI Screens Children for TB, Conducts Nutrition Assessment in Akwa Ibom Communities
In PHCs at Etinan, Ikot Edibon, and Nsit Ubium communities of Akwa Ibom state, Hope for Family Development Initiative, HFDI conducted a targeted Tuberculosis, TB, X-ray screening and nutrition assessment for Children Living with HIV, CLHIV.
The intervention aimed to promote early detection of TB and identify nutritional or growth-related challenges among children living with HIV to ensure timely medical and nutritional support.
The activity was carried out to strengthen awareness of tuberculosis, promote early identification of TB symptoms, and encourage appropriate health-seeking behaviour among participants. Given the increased vulnerability of people living with HIV to TB, the exercise provided an important opportunity to reinforce TB prevention and control messages and promote early access to care.
The program which mapped and reached households for the intervention focused on TB screening via chest X-ray examinations for eligible beneficiaries, Nutrition assessment through weight and height measurements to identify growth concerns.
The activity commenced with a health education session during which participants were sensitized on tuberculosis, including its common signs and symptoms, mode of transmission, prevention, and treatment. Emphasis was placed on the importance of recognizing symptoms early and seeking medical attention promptly.
The activity also gave Health education to the caregivers and beneficiaries on TB prevention, proper nutrition, antiretroviral therapy, ART, adherence and personal and respiratory hygiene, by covering their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, and ensure adequate ventilation in their homes and other enclosed spaces.
HFDI said the screening enabled the team to identify children requiring further medical or nutritional support and to link them to appropriate care, and the organisation urged the participants to remain alert to TB symptoms and to promptly report to a health facility if they develop persistent cough, fever, weight loss, night sweats, or any other concerning symptoms.
The exercise which captured the data of the households was conducted smoothly across participating communities in Etinan, with strong cooperation from participants and caregivers.
HFDI noted that integrating TB screening with nutrition assessment is critical for improving health outcomes among children living with HIV, as both conditions significantly impact their wellbeing and treatment outcomes.