If you or someone you love is living with HIV, you might wonder what the best steps are for staying healthy. The good news is that with the right treatment and care, people living with HIV can live long, full lives. In Uganda, the Ministry of Health has put together clear steps for managing HIV. This includes medicines, regular checkups, and support for daily living. Let’s break it down.
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Step 1: Start with the basics — care before HIV treatment begins
Even before you start antiretroviral treatment (ARVs), there are things you can do to protect your health. These are important whether you just found out your status or you’re waiting to begin treatment.
1. Preventing infections (prophylaxis)
When your immune system is weak, you’re more likely to get sick from other infections. One way to prevent this is by taking a daily tablet called cotrimoxazole.
- Adults and children over 30 kg: 960 mg once a day
- Children 15–29.9 kg: 480 mg once a day
- Children 5–14.9 kg: 240 mg once a day
- Children under 5 kg: 120 mg once a day
If someone is allergic to cotrimoxazole or has severe anaemia or neutropenia, a medicine called dapsone can be used instead.
2. Preventing TB (isoniazid preventive therapy, IPT)
Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the biggest risks for people with HIV. That’s why anyone living with HIV who does not have active TB should take isoniazid every day for 6 months.
- Adults: 5 mg per kg of body weight daily (maximum 300 mg)
- Children: 10 mg per kg daily (maximum 300 mg)
If the child is less than 12 months old, they are only given isoniazid if they’ve been in close contact with someone who has TB and have no signs of the disease.
Step 2: Regular treatment and medical care
Once a person starts ARVs, they need ongoing care to keep the virus under control and manage any other problems that may come up. This includes:
- Treating infections when they happen
- Relieving symptoms like pain, diarrhoea, or skin problems
- Seeking medical help early when you’re feeling unwell
Don’t wait for things to get worse. Getting help quickly makes a big difference.
Step 3: Positive living — staying well in body and mind
Living with HIV is about more than medicine. It’s also about your lifestyle, your habits, and your mindset. Positive living helps you take control of your health and your future.
Here’s what positive living means:
- Eating healthy, balanced meals
- Staying active and getting enough rest
- Spending time with loved ones
- Talking to a counsellor when you need support
- Being faithful to one partner, or using a condom every time you have sex
- Keeping clinic appointments and taking your medicine every day
Final word
HIV is not the end of your life. With the right steps, you can take charge of your health and live well. The government of Uganda provides free treatment and support in health centres across the country. Don’t wait. If you haven’t tested yet, go for an HIV test today. If you already know your status, follow your clinic’s advice and stay committed to your care.
You’re not alone. There’s help. There’s hope.
