Valentine: Be Careful So You Don't Contract HIV, STIs - NACA

 Hey peeps, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has asked that you (who have a special way of wanting to show love this season) be cautious even as you may involve yourselves in activities that could heighten your risk of contracting HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Infections, STIs.

The Director General of the Agency, Professor John Idoko advising said, “Valentine Day as good as it may be, has however, brought up a worrisome aspect festering this celebration of love season. This is the high rate of indiscriminate sexual and other negative activities which are perpetrated on this day leading to uninformed decision making among adolescents.

“In our quest to actualise a generation free from HIV/AIDS, NACA is advising that at this season of love, Nigerians should make informed decisions about their sexual engagements in order to halt the spread of the virus.”

“Either good or bad, alcohol intake does influence an individual’s judgments and perceptions. It is widely observed that drinking alcohol leads to increased risky sexual behaviour, like not using protection to prevent HIV/AIDS, or having sex that you will regret you had.

“As we celebrate love at this period of Valentine Day, it is good to note that safe sex is not just about protecting oneself, but however protecting those we love. As a nation, we must all come together with our partners and loved ones to discuss HIV/AIDS epidemic and above all get tested, he said.“