Saint Vincent and the Grenadines remains a low HIV-Prevalence country with an estimated 0.4% prevalence in the general population. The HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Programme continue to make notable progress in a number of programme areas. Of significance, is the steady advancement of the Mother-to Child Transmission Programme providing voluntary counselling and testing to pregnant women and achieving coverage of 85-100%. The provision of antiretroviral coverage to all HIV positive mothers to reduce the risk of vertical transmission is also worthy of mention in this regard.
Mission Statement
The HIV/AIDS/STI Prevention and Control Programme is committed to engaging individuals, groups, families and the civil society in aspects of its programme activities: enlightening them on sexual developmental issues and the practice of healthy sexual lifestyles; empowering caregivers to care for those affected and enriching the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS, utilising an integrated approach.
Vision Statement
A nation empowered to practice healthy lifestyles, adopt positive attitudes, and offer holistic care for those affected by HIV/AIDS thus working towards a significant reduction in the incidence of HIV/AIDS/STI.
Target Market [Key Clients]
- Sexually active persons.
- Adolescents/youths.
- Health care providers.
- Non-Governmental Organisations.
- Service Clubs.
- People living with AIDS.
- Pregnant women and their infants.
- MSM (Men who have sex with men).
- CSW (Commercial Sex Workers).
- Private sector.
- Civil Society.
Objectives:
- To develop policies to guide the development of plans and programmes for the control and prevention of HIV/AIDS and STIs.
- To undertake needs assessments and utilize information to design effective health promotions, disease prevention, prevention and care programmes.
- To establish and maintain linkages with the media, other sectors, institutions and NGOs at the local, regional and international levels.
- To advocate for the rights of patients/clients and enunciate their responsibilities.
- To identify the need for and assist in the conduct of applied research.
- To maintain communication and updated surveillance systems.