Voluntary Confidencial Counseling and Testing (VCCT) PDF Print E-mail
  • The National HIV and AIDS control program started the provision of VCCT services in 2003. As an initial step in the establishment of VCCT sites, the services of Family Health International (FHI) was consulted to assess the existing sites and develop a national VCCT Guideline and training manual.
  • The primary objective of VCCT had been prevention, to influence behavior change and prevent transmission of HIV. Many people needed to know and understand their HIV status. However availability of the service in Sierra Leone was restricted and when it was made available initially, uptake was relatively low. Most of those seeking to know their were the clinically ill. People were reluctant to go for VCCT because the drugs and psychosocial support were not available and also, there was no community support and legal framework to address stigma and discrimination
  • The increased commitment of the government of Sierra Leone in the provision of VCCT service and the availability of free antiretroviral drugs has lead to increased uptake of VCCT services and a reduction   in the level of stigma. There are currently 386 counseling and testing sites all over the country. HIV testing is free at all the sites and the rapid HIV antibody test kits are utilized.
 

Newsflash

VACANCY NOTICE

The National AIDS Secretariat has established Regional Information and Documentation Centres to meet the HIV and AIDS information needs of the public.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified Sierra Leoneans for the position of Library Assistant.

DUTY STATION: Freetown, Bo and Kenema

PURPOSE

Ensure the sustenance of quality and efficient management of the library and information support services in the Centre of operation

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