Growing up HIV positive, man narrates life story

Josphat Mutune, 20, from Embu Town was born with HIV and only found out when in Standard six. He had to take medicine but did not understand for what ailment, he narrated to Citizen Digital.

Mutune says it was great challenge growing up with HIV, adding that he suffered stigmatization by society and loss of self-esteem as a result.

“I am fully aware of my status and it doesn’t bother me too much as I still do things any other teen would do. There is no limitation to what I can achieve,” he said.

Mutune calls upon the youth to take the initiative and find out their HIV status. He advises his peers that are found to be HIV positive to adhere to doctors’ advice, as it will help with curbing the spread of the virus.

Embu County Aids Control Coordinator Daniel Gichovi told Citizen Digital that statistics show that most youths who are sexually active are increasingly being infected with the virus, reversing gains made in the fight against the disease.

Mr Gichovi added that programs and measures have been put in place to address the issue to secure the next generation.

Every year on December 1st, the world marks the World AIDS Day where it acknowledges the progress made in HIV prevention and treatment as well as renews the commitment to a future free of HIV. This year’s theme is to reduce infection among the youth.

Tags:

World Aids Day Growing up HIV positive man narrates life story

Want to send us a story? Submit on Wananchi Reporting on the Citizen Digital App or Send an email to wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke or Send an SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp on 0743570000

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet.

latest stories