By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Wife of Anambra State Governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo, has called for end to discrimination against persons living with HIV and AIDS.

She stated this in a message to mark this year’s World AIDS Day on Monday, saying that it is not a death sentence to be a carrier.

Mrs Soludo urged residents of the state to live a careful lifestyle to avoid contracting the virus.

She said: “Living with HIV is neither an unfortunate incarceration nor a death sentence. Yet again, it’s really important that everyone remains extra cautious of any affair that can lead to HIV transmission.

“The key word here is caution, but people living with HIV are humans like you and I. Nothing makes them unfortunate and less humans who should be treated with disdain and hate.’

The Anambra Governor's wife advised residents to go for routine medical check, saying that detection is key, just as everyone has the responsibility to protect and accommodate those living with the disease.

“We should also remember that routine tests really help a great deal. Beating that phobia for HIV tests is something you must prioritize.

“We all have a responsibility to protect and accommodate them, whether at home, school, work, or worship places, or elsewhere.

“Like most sicknesses, detecting HIV infection early enough can help greatly in managing the disease and, most importantly, guaranteeing your continued existence.

Whatever that should be done to stop the spread of HIV and AIDS must really start with us. Let’s say yes to action,” she stated.