Integration of WASH interventions into HIV/AIDS programmes in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

People living with HIV (PLHIV) have compromised immune systems and are highly susceptible to diarrhoeal diseases. Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions have been proven to be effective in reducing diarrhoeal diseases among PLHIV, yet little information exists on how integration of WASH into HIV/AIDS programmes occurs. The goals of this study were to: 1) identify specific WASH activities that have been integrated into HIV/AIDS programmes; 2) characterize the behavioural change techniques used to improve WASH-related behaviours; 3) identify WASH indicators used to evaluate WASH activities; and 4) discuss implementation challenges and potential ways to move the sector forward. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from six organizations integrating WASH into HIV/AIDS programmes. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with four of those six organizations. Each of the organizations integrated at least one of the three key WASH interventions into their HIV/AIDS programme, including: 1) household water treatment and safe storage; 2) hand washing with soap; and 3) safe handling and disposal of faeces. No organization integrated all three interventions. Sanitation interventions were least common among the programmes, highlighting the neglect of sanitation.