Tuesday, February 11
09:13 PM

Mission with a vision

2 Dec 2023 Positive Vision Association President Nashia Nasib By HUBERT VAZ

Positive Vision Association (PVA) – the first non-profit organisation in Oman to be formed under the Ministry of Social Development – has begun its mission to develop and implement awareness programmes in HIV/AIDS and substance addiction.

Muscat Daily caught up with Positive Vision Association President Nashia Nasib to dive deeper into the global crisis that HIV/AIDS and substance addiction have caused for humanity. She also explains the role the organisation plays in keeping the people in Oman safe. An excerpt of the interview follows:

Muscat Daily: Is PVA the first such initiative in the private sector? What type of ministerial support does it receive, with regard to resources, man power, policies, facilitation, etc? 

Nashia Nasib: PVA operates as a non-governmental association, with no financial support from government entities. Our operations fall under the governance of the Ministry of Social Development. Our primary focus is to support individuals living with HIV/AIDS and those who are affected by drug use. We also work closely with their families to provide the support they need to create a safe and inclusive environment.

Our NGO has very recently been established in July 2023, and so our efforts are dedicated primarily to ensuring that our organisation is well-structured and operating efficiently. We have invested significant time and resources as a board into developing our strategy and action plan for 2024-25, in addition to setting up robust policies and procedures in place. By doing so, we aim to ensure that our organisation operates smoothly and effectively in delivering the support needed by our target beneficiaries. 

We actively partner with the Ministry of Health and the National Drugs Committee, along with other government bodies when necessary. We also seek the support of the UN Agencies in the country, such as WHO, UNFPA and Unicef and plan to tap into their extensive resources, tools, and platforms to enhance our training programmes, strengthen our organisational capacity, and foster valuable networking opportunities within the NGO sector.

MD: What is your current assessment of the  HIV/AIDs scene in Oman – how alarming is it? 

Nashia: Globally, there are approximately 39 million People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV). In Oman, the first reported case was in 1984, and the country is classified as having a low prevalence of HIV. In 2022, there were 201 new cases reported among Omanis. The primary mode of transmission is through sexual contact, with 84.6% of new cases occurring among men. The age group most affected is 25-49. 

Currently, there are 2,157 cumulative cases of PLHIV alive in Oman, with the highest concentration in the Muscat region. Over the years, AIDS-related deaths have significantly decreased, suggesting an increase in early diagnosis and access to treatment. This indicates that more individuals are being diagnosed early in the course of the disease, enabling them to start treatment and adhere to it.

MD: What are the current available treatments for people living with HIV/AIDS?

Nashia: To encourage testing and ensure anonymity, the Ministry of Health has designated health centres across the country where people can undergo anonymous testing. These voluntary counseling and testing sites are available in various locations, such as Al Khoudh Health Centre, Al Amerat Health Centre, Al Shadi Health Centre, Al Qurayat Polyclinic, North Al Khuwair Health Centre, Suhar Hospital, and Al Buraimi Hospital.

These centres not only offer testing but also provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with counselors, ask questions about risky behaviors that could lead to HIV transmission, and receive necessary support if they test positive. While there is currently no definitive cure for HIV infection, PLHIV can lead long and healthy lives similar to individuals with other chronic diseases. This is made possible through regular treatment with a combination of antiretroviral drugs. The goals of treatment include controlling the virus, alleviating symptoms, and reducing the occurrence of complications in infected individuals. 

Although there is no definitive cure for HIV infection, it is crucial to continue to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, encourage testing, and ensure access to treatment (antiretroviral drugs) and support for PLHIV in order to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. The treatment aims to control the virus, relieve symptoms and signs of the virus and reduce the incidence of complications in people infected with the virus.

MD: Is this issue not a common concern of the public sector and private sector of healthcare in Oman? How much burden are the private sector hospitals currently shouldering?

Nashia: Patients can undergo HIV testing in the private sector; however, confirmation tests are only done at the Ministry of Health (MoH). The primary purpose of this confirmation test is to ensure that everyone who tests positive for HIV is registered and receives appropriate treatment. This step helps to maintain accurate records and enables healthcare providers to provide the necessary care and support to individuals living with HIV. 

MD: Is there need for all government/private hospitals to provide a cell or dedicated beds for HIV/AIDS cases as well as a central agency to coordinate and tabulate relevant data? 

Nashia: It is important to note that it is neither ethical nor necessary to have separate designated spaces for PLHIV in hospital settings being it outpatient or as inpatients, as this will only label and stigmatise them further. HIV/AIDS is also not airborne. As the symptoms of HIV/AIDS can vary widely throughout the course of the disease, ranging from common cold-like symptoms to skin conditions, severe weight loss, pneumonia, low immunity, and tuberculosis, among others. Patients seek specialised care from healthcare professionals based on the specific symptoms they experience.

Utilisation of medical services would be hugely impacted if PLHIV were to feel marginalised. They will stop seeking help due to the stigma and discrimination they would face which has a profound impact on their mental health and emotional well-being. Furthermore, it is vital to highlight that all medical staff are expected to adhere to good medical practice at all times, ensuring their own protection. When drawing blood from any patient for example, it must be done with care, taking all necessary safety measures. 

Testing for HIV is the only way to determine an individual’s HIV status, and unless specifically requested, it is not routinely done. It is of utmost importance for individuals who may have been exposed to HIV to undergo testing and, if necessary, initiate treatment. By encouraging testing and providing access to treatment, we can support the well-being and health of those affected by HIV/AIDS.

MD: What is the most common transmission type of cases in Oman – What needs to be done to bring down the incidence? 

Nashia: In Oman, the most common mode of HIV transmission is through sexual contact, which is also the predominant mode of transmission globally. Additionally, HIV can be transmitted through infected needles, particularly among injecting drug users. Other modes of transmission include mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding, as well as through blood transfusions. 

To prevent mother-to-child transmission, routine HIV testing of pregnant women has been implemented as part of antenatal checkups since July 2009. This proactive approach has resulted in timely management of HIV-positive women and their infants, leading to a significant reduction in mother-to-child transmission over the years. 

In 2022, Oman achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first country in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to successfully eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognised Oman’s commendable efforts in this regard, highlighting the country’s dedication and success in preventing the transmission of HIV from mothers to their children. This achievement showcases the effectiveness of comprehensive testing, timely interventions, and appropriate healthcare measures in reducing the transmission of HIV from mother to child. It serves as an inspiration and a testament to the commitment of healthcare providers and policymakers in ensuring the well-being of both mothers and infants affected by HIV. 

MD: Is there need for any change in cultural values in this part of the world to tackle the bane of HIV?

Nashia: Given the conservative nature of our society and our region, discussing the subject of HIV/AIDS can be challenging. It requires addressing issues that people are often uncomfortable talking about, regardless of age, gender, marital status, or social standing. By acknowledging the existence of HIV/AIDS, we are accepting that it is a reality that affects our community, something that many individuals prefer to ignore. 

However, in order to bring about a change, we must confront this issue and raise awareness to protect our youth. It is crucial to approach individuals who are HIV-positive with empathy and understanding, without judgement or discrimination. 

Many young people find themselves in compromising situations that they may later regret, but fortunately, not all of them acquire HIV. It is important to recognise that humans make mistakes, but these mistakes should not equate to a death wish or result in ostracism and stigma within society. By embracing and accepting people, including their mistakes, we can prevent feelings of anger, depression, and negativity, which can have dangerous repercussions for individuals and the community as a whole.

It is essential to emphasise that HIV/AIDS is not solely linked to ‘bad behaviour’. While some cases may be associated with behaviours such as unsafe sex or drug use, it is important to recognise that HIV transmission can occur through various means, including mother to child, infidel relationships, blood transfusions in the past. It is crucial to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding HIV, and instead, foster a supportive and understanding environment that encourages open dialogue and education. 

MD: What type of cooperation/support does PVA expect from corporates as well as social welfare organisations to significantly create awareness and curb the number of cases in Oman? 

Nashia: To effectively carry out its mission, PVA will always require support from the corporate sector. This support can come in various forms, including financial contributions and in-kind donations. The involvement of the private sector is crucial, as it has a significant role to play in raising awareness not only within the community but also internally within their own organisations. 

The corporate sector’s support through funding enables NGOs to sustain their operations, implement programmes, and reach a wider audience with their initiatives. Financial contributions from businesses can provide the necessary resources to run awareness campaigns, education programmes, and support services for the target population. This funding helps NGOs expand their reach, mobilise resources, and make a greater impact on the issues they are addressing. 

In addition to financial support, the private sector can also contribute through in-kind donations. This can include providing goods, services, or expertise that are valuable to the NGO’s operations. For example, a corporate partner may offer pro-bono legal services, marketing support, or access to specialised resources or facilities. These in-kind contributions can significantly enhance the NGO’s capabilities and enable them to operate more efficiently and effectively. 

Collaboration between NGOs and the private sector is a win-win situation. NGOs gain access to resources, expertise, and networks, while the corporate sector fulfills its corporate social responsibility objectives and contributes to positive social change. This synergy can create a powerful force for raising awareness, driving change, and making a lasting impact on the community and society as a whole.

MD: On the occasion of World AIDS Day, what is your message to people in Oman? 

Nashia: The theme for 2023 World AIDS Day is Let Communities Lead. As a newly established NGO, this theme perfectly aligns with our official recognition as an NGO. It emphasises the crucial role that NGOs play as a powerful voice for change and progress. We have the unique ability to address important issues that may not always be prioritised by the government, yet are pivotal in addressing the challenges at hand and transforming lives. While the Ministry of Health primarily focuses on treatment, our NGO, Positive Vision recognises the significance of tackling stigma and discrimination for People Living with HIV (PLHIV). 

We understand that advocating for the rights of PLHIV, including their rights to employment and equal opportunities, is essential. Moreover, we aim to raise awareness among the youth, who represent a significant percentage of Oman’s population, ensuring they play an active role in HIV prevention and support initiatives. By addressing these critical aspects, the NGO aims to bridge the gaps in the existing system and complement the efforts of the government. 

Together, we can work towards a more inclusive and supportive society, where PLHIV are treated with dignity and have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve. Through our advocacy, awareness campaigns, and collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, we strive to bring about a positive change and improve the overall well-being of PLHIV and the community as a whole.

MD: Is PVA linked with any regional/international body in its mission? 

Nashia: No, the association is not currently linked with any regional or international body in its mission. However, while not directly linked to any regional or international body, the association can still tap into various resources and networks available through online platforms, forums, and conferences. These avenues provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, learning, and collaboration with organisations and experts from around the world. 

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