Sustaining HIV Care and Treatment Services During Marburg Disease Outbreaks: Lessons learnt from Tanzania.

Abstract

ObjectivesIn March 2023, a Marburg (MVD) outbreak occurred in the northwestern region (kagera region), of Tanzania. Six health facilities that were providing HIV/AIDs services were closed as part of the outbreak response. The article describes and shares experiences of providing HIV/AIDS services during outbreaks. MethodologyThis is a documented field report, we conducted a rapid assessment and ascertained a high probability of clients receiving HIV/AIDs services from closed facilities impacted by the closure of facilities. Data on expected clients to attend the closed facilities were analyzed to facilitate the planning and establishment of alternative facilities and spots where clients will come receive the required service. ResultsDespite the closure of the facilities from 20th March 2023 to 21st April 2023. A total of 135(96%) clients from closed facilities were reached and received HIV/AIDs services according to their appointment schedules. The main lessons we learnt related to multi-organization coordination, collaboration, prompt planning, innovation, and communication are essential to ensuring the continuity of HIV care and treatment services during public health emergencies. ConclusionThe findings of this documented field report demonstrate the importance of innovative approaches to ensure the continuation of HIV care and treatment services during public health emergencies. There is a need to ensure regional health systems are prepared to be resilient during outbreaks.