PrEP is a new HIV prevention method that has been launched in Zambia as part of the
nationwide Zambia Ending AIDS campaign. As people at the front line of the fight against
HIV, Healthcare workers will play a key role in determining the success of Ending AIDS.
Along with PrEP, Condoms, ART, VMMC and PMTCT, fighting stigma and discrimination is a
vital part of the strategy to end AIDS, as these are serious barriers to people seeking HIV
testing, HIV Treatment and adopting other HIV prevention methods and sexual health
services.
Changing people’s attitudes towards HIV and getting rid of the stigma that currently
surrounds HIV, needs to start and be led from within the healthcare system. The attitudes of
healthcare workers are THE key driver in establishing an inclusive and trusting culture within
the health service. Protecting confidentiality and treating adolescents and young people,
and people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) with respect are key elements of being a good and
effective health care worker.