A mobile VCT centre in Nairobi. [Photo/ nation.co.ke]
HIV/AIDS is a killer disease claiming the lives of many Kenyans every year. The country is one of the four HIV high burden countries in Africa.Kisumu County, on the other hand, is among the top four counties leading in HIV prevalence in Kenya. According to the Kenya HIV Estimates 2015, women are more vulnerable to HIV infections than men in the county.The Lakeside city has contributed to 9.5% of the total number of people living with HIV in Kenya and is ranked the third highest nationally. Here are five crucial reasons why you should consider going for HIV testing.1. To be sure about your statusMany people assume they are healthy despite not going for tests. Getting tested is the only sure way to know your HIV/AIDS status. It is important to know your status as the disease is spread through various means which some of us are subjected to in our daily lives.2. To receive counselingThere are professional counselors in every VCT centre. When you visit the centres, you will be adequately counseled and advised on preventive measures and how to live with the disease if found positive. The good thing is that some of these counselors are positive hence can share their experiences in dealing with the disease.3. To encourage other people to be testedGoing for an HIV/AIDS test has never been an easy task for many of us. This is owing to the fact that you are not sure of the results hence people fear the aftermath in case they receive results they didn’t expect. When someone you trust for example a spouse or close friend goes for testing, you will be encouraged to go for the same. It is important to get tested so as to motivate the people in your circle to do the same.4. To protect the ones you loveGoing for an HIV/AIDS test means you care for the people you love. You can persuade your spouse to accompany you to a VCT centre to get tested together. Knowing your status will enable you to put in place the necessary measures required to keep each other safe. Knowing your status as a mother will also help you protect your kids if found positive. 5. To receive medicationThere are certain steps one can take to live longer if found positive. Being enrolled in a medication plan will help you remain strong and healthy despite suffering from the disease. Eating healthy and taking your medication as required will see you live a longer, healthier life.