An investigation into the challenges faced by those infected with HIV at birth, the support systems available to them and their effectiveness: case study Mashonaland West province.

Abstract

Children born with HIV survive with the pain and fears that come with it. They face many challenges some of which may even be life threatening. This therefore, requires them to have a clear understanding of their status and an effective and reliable support system so that they can effectively deal with these challenges. Mashonaland West Province is one of the Provinces with the highest HIV prevalence, prostitution, early marriages and pregnancies, hence this research intends to better help the community and the nation as a whole, better deal with this predicament. An inquiry was made on the HIV perinatals understanding of their status and the ART regimen, the challenges they face, the support systems available to them and their efficiency. Questionnaires, interviews and observations were used to collect data from nurses, HIV infected perinatals and guardians. Results showed that the challenges they are facing include stigma, disclosure, poverty, sex and reproductive issues, feelings of resentment, lack inefficient support system and access to ARVs. Identified support systems were local support groups, information walls, ART regimen, hospital counselling services, churches and the family institution. All these support systems were not given a total thumps up by the very people they are mostly designed for. Therefore, among other recommendations, the government and NGO’s should erect a suitable and reliable support system and also expand services of Africaid Zvandiri Adolescent Support Group across the nation. Lastly, the media and publishing companies should create a platform for the HIV perinatals to share, learn, have fun and address their concerns.