Need information, support or access to test for sexually transmitted infections? Head over to testKTM.org and find a clinic near you. The website details different clinics across Nepal, with their names and contact number available.
With the global shake-up in the funding world, HIV and sexual health programmes are at risk. This has already had a an impact in Nepal with free clinics being closed and services stopped immediately post-USAID closure. There is a huge danger that all the progress made so far will be reversed.
testKTM.org, supported by partners from Thailand and USA has emerged to fill the expanding gaps. Currently, the website lists resources from documents and articles on Nepal’s position and plan on HIV. It will update more content focused on Nepal over the coming days.
Nepal’s National HIV Strategic Plan has embarked on a fast-track approach towards ending the AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030, in line with the global Sustainable Development Goals. Nepal’s plan is to also follow the ambitious 95-95-95 target by 2026! In short:
- 95% diagnosed: This means 95% of all people living with HIV know their status through HIV testing.
- 95% on treatment: Of those diagnosed, 95% should be receiving sustained antiretroviral therapy (ART).
- 95% virally suppressed: Among those on ART, 95% should achieve viral suppression, meaning the virus is suppressed to undetectable levels, making it very difficult to transmit.
There lies a huge uphill battle to achieve the 95 goals by 2026. I will aim to find more information on where Nepal’s progress stands. Challenges include reaching marginalized groups, stigma around testing, access, affordability!
There is an estimated 30,000+ people living with HIV in Nepal
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