As the World is set to celebrate World Aids Day on Tuesday, residents of Kisumu have been told to get tested and seek medical intervention if found to be infected with HIV.
The National Coordinator, International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Kenya, Erick Okioma said it is important to know one's status.
Okioma said getting access to HIV drugs early when infected is the best option.
“I urge our people to go for early tests and be able to manage the disease if found to be HIV positive, the drugs are now with us,” he said.
He said drugs are locally available unlike in the past when those found to be HIV-positive had to make arrangements for the drugs from Nairobi.
Okioma said stigma remains an impediment in the fight against the scourge that must be tackled.
Speaking in Kisumu on Monday a ead of the celebrations at Kenyatta Sports Ground, Okioma urged those who are living with HIV to join support groups within their areas.
He said the support groups will help in fighting stress and make one to open up on their status.
Okioma said many discussions always go on in the support groups and highly recommended it for people living with the virus.
“There are a number of support groups that can offer counseling to those finding their status, at the support groups you will meet people who are also in the same condition and will share their stories,” he said.