Policy brief on increasing partner disclosure among human immunodeficiency virus-infected persons in stable relationship in Nigeria

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection contributes significantly to early death. Rate of partner disclosure is low among HIV-infected person in stable relationship preventing uptake of HIV prevention, treatment, and care by partners. Persons in stable relationship account for about 50% new infection in Nigeria largely resulting from nondisclosure by HIV-infected partner. Partner notification (PN) strategies are available for HIV-infected persons in stable relationship. In spite of the perceived barriers to partner disclosure among HIV-infected persons in stable relationship, there is ample evidence they will positively respond to PN service. The incorporation of PN strategy into the 2014 Integrated National Guideline for HIV Prevention, Treatment, and Care has created a window of opportunity for local action on PN in HIV-infected persons in stable relationship. This evidence brief summarizes available evidence on PN strategies for increasing PN among HIV-infected persons in stable relationship. The evidence brief is intended to contribute to the local implementation strategy on PN in HIV prevention, treatment, and care as specified in the Integrated National Guidelines for HIV Prevention, Treatment, and Care in Nigeria. It is also aimed at senior management teams in state agencies for the control of AIDS and all local government health departments in Nigeria.