KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS INFLUENCE ON THE LEVEL OF DISCRIMINATION AND STIGMATIZATION OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/ AIDS IN GARISSA COUNTY

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish whether knowledge and awareness influences the level of discrimination and stigmatization of people living with HIV/ AIDS in Garissa County.Methodology: The target population of the study was all the patients with HIV and AIDS attending The Comprehensive care Centre at Garissa Provincial General Hospital in Garissa County. There are approximately 2000 people actively on ARVs attending the facility. A sample of 200 respondents was selected using random sampling from the listed list of all patients in the hospitals. The study used primary data. Data collection methods included: questionnaires and interview guide. Data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Information was sorted, coded and input into the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) for production of graphs, tables, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Results were presented by use of tables and charts.Results: Based on the findings, the study concluded that knowledge levels on the transmission routes of HIV influenced stigmatization and discrimination levels. Specifically, knowledge level on whether HIV can be spread through a mosquito bite influenced stigmatization and discrimination. Further, the study concluded that the knowledge level on whether HIV can be spread through a mosquito bite is statistically significant in explaining stigmatization and discrimination of people living with HIV in Garissa County.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Based on the findings, the study recommends that village barazas should be held regularly to increase public awareness and openness about HIV/AIDS.