The Lagos State Government has officially launched the Lagos Aids Indicator Survey (LAGAIS) to determine the prevalence and incidence rate of HIV/AIDS amongst different categories of people in the State.

Speaking at the event held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja recently, the Special Adviser to Governor Ambode on Primary Health Care, Dr. Olufemi Onanuga disclosed that the survey is cross-sectional and aimed at ascertaining the prevalence and incidence rate of HIV/AIDS amongst ages 0-18 months, 18 months-14 years and adults, 15 years-49 years in the State.

Onanuga, represented by Dr. Sobowale, explained that samples were randomly selected in all the 20 Local Government and 37 Local Council Development Areas in the State.

According to him, “LAGAIS is a population-based, cross-sectional multi-stage probability survey engaging 29,269 participants from 5, 973 households, 15,805 people - aged 15 years and above, as well as 13,464 children from 0-14 years,”

On the survey methodology, Onanuga stated that blood samples will be taken from consenting participants (0.6mls and 9mls from 0-18 months and 18 months above respectively) and transported to the nearest satellite laboratory for tests, adding that Open Data Kit (ODK) software package will be used to manage laboratory specimens.

On his part, the Director, Disease Control, Dr. Eniola Erinosho, representing the State Commissioner for Health, said that the survey involves counseling, testing as well as blood collection for various examinations such as viral load determination amongst others.

He enjoined Lagosians to support the project and cooperate with the team who will be visiting their homes soon so that the various objectives of the survey can be achieved seamlessly.

He observed that continuous sensitization of the populace is very crucial in ensuring adequate participation and support of the people, stressing the importance of the increased awareness of the LAGAIS project through the print and electronic media to engender the support and commitment of the populace.

The highpoint of the event was the official launching of the Survey as well as presentations on Strategies for LAGAIS Community Mobilization and Advocacy by Mrs. Bunmi Ilawole and Overview of LAGAIS by the Survey Technical Officer, Dr. Sogbamimu.

http://www.lasgidionline.com.ng/2017/09/lasg-flags-off-aids-indicator-survey.html

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