The AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria ATM Network has called for greater action to end the scourge of HIV, tuberculosis and Malaria in Nigeria.
Pastor Effiong Udobong, the State coordinator of the Civil Society for Malaria Control Immunization and Nutrition, ACOMIN, disclosed this during a media brief in Calabar, Cross River State.
According to him, “HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and Malaria disproportionately affect vulnerable populations due to socioeconomic disparities.
“Socioeconomic factors significantly impact the prevalence of Malaria, HIV and TB infections and these diseases are closely tied to poverty with the most vulnerable populations facing inadequate access to healthcare facilities.
“Addressing these challenges requires systemic efforts to improve access, affordability and awareness”, he said.
In addition, he said innovative service delivery models and technologic adaptations are critical to minimize disruptions to routine care.
Also speaking Rev. Sunday Eminue, the ATM state Coordinator of the Network of people living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria said the ATM is helping to strengthen selected primary health centres to see how they can better cater for people with these diseases.
On his part, Dr. Jonah Bassey, the state director of public health said TB, HIV and Malaria are of grave public concern in the state.
He commended the ATM Network in the state for its efforts to control the diseases, saying they have helped to ensure access to healthcare at the primary level.
The ATM Networks are collaborating with the National Agency for the control of AIDS, NACA, on the Covid-19 Response Mechanism/Resilient and Sustainable System for Health (C19RM) Grant.
The grant aims to address health system gaps and enhance sustainable, efficient and effective health outcomes.
