Love, drugs and condoms: Couples with different HIV status face a new reality
Summary
This article discusses the challenges faced by couples in Kenya where one partner is HIV positive and the other is HIV negative, known as serodiscordant couples. These couples rely on medications and condoms to prevent transmission but are facing shortages due to cuts in U.S. foreign aid. This has made it harder for them to access necessary preventive measures.Key Facts
- Serodiscordant couples are those where one partner is HIV positive and the other is HIV negative.
- Robert Ochweda, HIV negative, uses condoms and PrEP to stay protected while married to HIV positive Millicent Akoth.
- Akoth takes antiretroviral drugs which help reduce her viral load and lower the risk of infecting her husband.
- There have been difficulties in accessing these medical supplies following cuts to U.S. foreign aid that funded health support programs.
- Caleb Ochieng, also HIV negative, experienced trouble obtaining his PrEP medication, which he uses to protect himself in his marriage to HIV positive Diana Odhiambo.
- Diana takes measures to suppress the virus, and Caleb is regularly tested for HIV to ensure his health.
- Ochieng has become a peer educator to help other couples in similar situations manage their health and relationships.
- Preventive measures include the use of condoms, PrEP, and voluntary male circumcision.
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