HIV/AIDS in Kenya

Infobox Disease
ICD-10	G71.2
ICD-9	359.0
DiseasesDB	31991
MedlinePlus
eMedicine	neuro 76 neuro/230
MeSH ID

HIV/AIDS in Kenya is a significant public health issue, affecting the lives of many individuals and influencing various aspects of Kenyan society. The epidemic has seen various changes in prevalence and impact over the years, influenced by government policies, international aid, and community efforts.

Epidemiology

HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, was first identified in Kenya in the early 1980s. Since then, the country has experienced one of the most severe HIV epidemics in the world. The prevalence of HIV in Kenya varies widely across the country, with higher rates typically found in urban areas and certain counties such as Homa Bay, Kisumu, and Siaya.

Government and Policy Response

The Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Health, has implemented various policies and programs to combat HIV/AIDS. Key initiatives include the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), which coordinates the response to the epidemic, and the Kenya National AIDS Strategic Plan, which outlines specific strategies for HIV prevention, treatment, and care.

Prevention Efforts

Prevention strategies in Kenya include public education campaigns, condom distribution, and efforts to reduce mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Voluntary medical male circumcision has also been promoted as an effective method to reduce the transmission of HIV.

Treatment and Care

Access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly increased in Kenya over the years. The government, with support from international donors such as the PEPFAR and the Global Fund, has worked to ensure that people living with HIV have access to life-saving treatments.

Impact on Society

HIV/AIDS has had a profound impact on the Kenyan society, affecting economic development, household stability, and the health sector. Orphans and vulnerable children are a particularly affected group, with many children losing parents and caregivers to the disease.

Challenges

Despite progress, Kenya still faces several challenges in the fight against HIV/AIDS. These include stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV, gender-based violence, and the need for increased funding for HIV programs.

Future Directions

Moving forward, Kenya aims to achieve the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets, which call for 90% of all people living with HIV to know their status, 90% of all people diagnosed with HIV to receive sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 90% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy to have viral suppression by 2020.

See also

• Health in Kenya
• Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS