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IHVN Trains Health Workers on Cervical Cancer Prevention

To equip healthcare workers with the knowledge and skills for prevention and management of cervical pre-cancerous lesions, the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has trained 63 health workers in the FCT, Katsina, Nasarawa, and Rivers States.

During the three-day training, participants engaged in practical demonstrations on the use of Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) machine in managing pre-cancerous cervical lesions. Trainees, including doctors and nurses, built their capacity on cervical cancer treatment methods and screening in a see-and-treat program, infection prevention, as well as sterilization. They are to step down the training to others in their health facilities for improved screening and treatment of precancerous lesions among Women Living with HIV (WLHIV)

IHVN Program Manager, Dr. Victoria Igbinomwanhia said that the training is important in building the capacity of health care workers in facilities supported by IHVN across all four States in the screening and treatment of WLHIV.

“Women Living with HIV are six times more predisposed to cervical cancer compared to non-WLHIV. The training provided these professionals with the required skills to identify precancerous lesions and promptly treat using either the thermo-ablation or LEEP machine depending on the location and extent of the lesion. This ensures that eligible WLHIV between the ages of 25 and 49 years who receive care and treatment at the ART clinics are provided screening yearly. This Is a component of the HIV comprehensive care package to improve the quality of life and reduce mortality in already stable WLHIV,” she said.

According to Dr. Igbinomwanhia, the next steps following the training include distribution of LEEP machines to all four States, step-down training to other facility staff championed by the trained participants, continued onsite mentoring and supervision and immediate treatment of all clients identified with precancerous lesions amenable for treatment with the LEEP machine.

Dr. Oluseyi Asaolu, who participated in the FCT training, said that the training was beneficial and looks forward to stepping it down to resident doctors “The most important thing is scaling it down to others who can use the equipment regardless of who is on duty.” Another participant, Mrs. Aisha Haladu from Kastina State, said that utilizing the LEEP machine would benefit clients who would ordinarily be unable to afford cervical cancer screening.

**Facilitators at the training in Katsina State Nigeria, Farida Salisu and Dr. Aisha Abdulrahman anchoring a practical session on using the LEEP machine**

Mothers Happy about HIV-Free Babies, PMTCT Services

One of the services that the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) supports in 368 health facilities in FCT, Rivers, Nasarawa, and Kastina states is the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) services. This involves the provision of HIV diagnosis, care, and treatment for mothers and babies and results in HIV-free babies.

From 2004 to June 2023, IHVN has provided HIV counseling and testing to 5.5 million pregnant women and PMTCT services to more than 126,000 women who tested HIV positive.

Blessing, a petty trader, is one of the women who have received PMTCT services in Rivers State University Teaching Hospital in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. She recalls that when she discovered her HIV status in 2013, one of her greatest fears was that she would not be able to get married or give birth to HIV-free children.

“I thought that being HIV positive was a death sentence but the doctor who counseled me assured me that I could live long, get married, and have my own children. He gave me medications and guided me on how to take them,” she said.

It was a dream come true for Blessing when she married in 2019 and got pregnant afterward.

“At the antenatal clinic, the healthcare workers welcomed me like everyone else. I was not stigmatized. I was impressed and happy. When I was in labour, they gave me VIP treatment, I delivered safely,” she said.

Blessing and her baby were given medications and supported by a peer mentor who assisted her with hospital processes during pregnancy, delivery, and after delivery. Her baby was tested at six weeks and 18 months.

“I was happy when the test showed that my baby is HIV negative,” Blessing said. She has also received PMTCT services for her two-month-old baby who she is currently breastfeeding.

“My advice to others is not to be scared about HIV. You are not alone, don’t die like a chicken. Since I started taking HIV medications in 2013, I rarely fall sick. I am strong and healthy. You can eat well and live your normal life even when taking medications. You can even live to see your great-grandchildren,” she said.

Another mother with HIV-free children is Bomi A., who was thrilled after an Early Infant Diagnosis test at six weeks and a rapid test at 18 months showed that her babies were HIV-free.

“My first child is four years old and my second is two years old. For the first child, I was worried when I came to the hospital. I asked the doctor if everything would go well, and he assured me that it was well. For the second one, I was not worried. Antenatal services are given free by the Rivers State government. I did not pay for the PMTCT services in the hospital either.”

“My mentor mother often calls me to ask how I’m feeling and if I am facing any challenges. She also updates me with relevant information. When I come to the clinic, she checks to see that I’m alright,” she said.

Bomi added that during her facility visits, she interacts with other women living with HIV and is encouraged by their resilience.

“I’m excited to tell others to try their best to take their medications as prescribed,” Bomi said.

IHVN Rivers State ASPIRE Project Manager, Dr. Stanley Idakwo, noted that between April 2019 to September 2023, IHVN supported the testing of 7,122 antenatal clients and placed 69 newly identified HIV pregnant women on anti-retroviral treatment at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH). “More than 500 babies have been delivered HIV-free from HIV-positive mothers who have benefitted from PMTCT services. RSUTH is one of the largest facilities providing PMTCT services in Rivers state, hence its reach cut across communities all over the state,” he said.

IHVN Program Manager Prevention Care and Treatment, Dr. Victoria Igbinomwanhia said that IHVN provides PMTCT services in both health facilities and in the community to improve access to the services.

“We are collaborating with Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) and faith-based homes to offer PMTCT services. We provide them with HIV test kits; we have trained the TBAs to conduct HIV testing, referring those who are identified positive to designated supported facilities to commence ART. We have hub and spoke models where TBAs are mapped to supported health facilities. If clients are tested in the community, we find out whether they prefer to access PMTCT in the community or facility.” she said.

Blessing and Bomi interact with visiting US Consul General, Mr. Will Stevens and the Rivers State Hon. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, during a visit to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital

World TB Day 2024: IHVN Sensitizes Public on Tuberculosis Services

In line with the theme of the 2024 World Tuberculosis Day, “Yes! We can end TB and slogan: No gree for TB! Check Am O,” Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has sensitized the public about tuberculosis and efforts to address the disease in the country.

During a pre-World TB Day ministerial press briefing to commemorate the day, IHVN Senior Manager, Dr Temitope Adetiba stated that in collaboration with the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Program (NTBLCP), and other partners, IHVN has notified over 200,000 people affected by tuberculosis across 31 states.

“Not all Nigerians have access to tuberculosis services, and this gave rise to our foray into the private sector because data shows that more than 60% of Nigerians access health care first in the private sector. We engaged with patent medicine vendors, community pharmacists, and traditional healers, and can reach more Nigerians,” he said.

He added that the new phase of the Global Fund grant in Nigeria involves scaling up tuberculosis services to all states of the federation.

“I am happy that the members of the press here can take this message out there, that people in the community can go to the nearest patent medicine vendor, traditional birth attendants for tuberculosis services. We have trained these people across the country to be able to provide quality assured tuberculosis services.

Also, through the support of the Global Fund, we have optimized the Gene Xpert platforms. To be able to conduct tests round the clock, they have been equipped with solar panels, batteries and inverter systems so that whenever tuberculosis specimens are sent for test, the results can be available within 24 hours,” he added.

IHVN also participated in road walks in Abuja and Lagos to create awareness about the disease. In Abuja, the walk was from Garki Ultra-Modern Market to Garki Old Market while in Lagos State, the walk held in Ikeja – from the Ministry of Health to the House of Assembly and Shoprite.

Every year, the world commemorates World Tuberculosis Day on March 24th to raise awareness about tuberculosis and efforts to eliminate the disease

**IHVN Senior Program Manager, Dr Temitope Adetiba addressing the press at a pre-world tuberculosis press briefing in Abuja, Nigeria.**

Compliance Officer – Lagos

The Institute of Human Virology (IHVN) is a leading and reputable non-governmental organization addressing infectious and non-infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and cancer through the provision of prevention, diagnosis, treatment, capacity building, research, and care and support services. IHVN is in partnership with local and international organizations and the different tiers of the government of Nigeria at national, state, and local levels. The Institute’s vision is to be a leader in providing quality health services, capacity building and research in West Africa and beyond.

The TB-LON 3 Project is a USAID-funded Award that is a revolutionary program working with communities, facilities and relevant State and National structures to improve access to TB case finding, diagnosis, treatment and notification in Lagos, Ogun, Osun, and Oyo States; as well as increase domestic financing for TB and strengthen surveillance and integrated reporting.

The TB-LON 3 Project is implemented by a consortium with Institute of Human Virology Nigeria as the Prime Recipient, Society for Family Health as the Sub-Recipient, and other.

IHVN is seeking qualified candidates for the following position:

Position	Compliance Officer
Reports to	Manager -Internal Audit & Compliance
Scheduled Work Time	Monday – Friday (Flexibility, willing to travel and work weekends)
Location:	Lagos

Opening Date: 16/04/2024

Closing Date: 29/04/2024

Job Summary

The position entails regular financial and programmatic review which under the supervision of the Unit Head, this position will coordinate the activities in the following areas:

Responsibilities:

Review daily all staff retirements, third-party transactions, and administrative expenses of the state office.
Carry out our post-payment review of state offices’ transactions, which are sent to the head office weekly (Osun, Ogun, and Oyo).
Conduct pre- and post-payment of Ad-hoc staff payroll expenses (Cascade, monitors, consultants, Linkage coordinators, Data clerks, PPM facilitators, and Radiographers for the state offices monthly).
Review and certify monthly bank reconciliation statements.
Carry out a spot check on some of the training activities carried out in any of the offices to ensure value for money.
Review daily attendance register for promptness to work.
Conduct annual asset verification for the TB LON Project across all the states.
Attend promptly to any other assignment(s) given to you by the departmental and unit Heads.

Other duties include:

Perform pre- and post-review on TB LON financial transactions.
Develop a tracker to capture all issues observed and send the tracker to the unit head for review and comments monthly.
Ensure the administrative department prepares and regularly updates the monthly procurement tracker.
Ensure that prior issues identified and reported by internal and external reviewers are closely monitored and implemented.
Review consultants’ monthly reports to ensure expectations are met, and the right supporting documents are provided.
Ensure you seek clarifications from departmental and unit heads for any issues you may not understand clearly.
Perform asset verification where necessary.

Qualifications:

Candidate should have at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as finance, business administration, or accounting. ICAN or ACCA will be an added advantage.
Strong understanding of regulatory grants rules, requirements, terms, and conditions, especially on USAID; excellent analytical skills and the ability to interpret and implement relevant policies and procedures effectively.
Candidate should have previous experience in a compliance role, preferably in a similar industry or project environment.
Good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well independently and as part of a team.

Line of reporting:

Administrative reporting to the Chief of Party.
Technical reporting to the Unit Head.

Equal employment opportunity statement

IHVN is an equal employment employer. We do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on religion, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, genetic information, or any other status or characteristic protected under applicable laws.

Mode of Application:

Application letter and detailed curriculum vitae in Microsoft Word format should be forwarded to the Assistant Director, Human Resources through this email address:[email protected] This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

This advert closes 14 days from the date of this publication, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Medical Imaging/X-ray Technician – Lagos

The TB-LON 3 Project is a USAID-funded Award that is a revolutionary program working with communities, facilities and relevant State and National structures to improve access to TB case finding, diagnosis, treatment and notification in Lagos, Ogun, Osun and Oyo States; as well as increase domestic financing for TB and strengthen surveillance and integrated reporting.

The TB-LON 3 Project is implemented by a consortium with Institute of Human Virology Nigeria as the Prime Recipient, Society for Family Health as the Sub-Recipient, and other Implementing Entities.

IHVN is seeking qualified candidates for the following position:

Position	Medical Imaging/X-ray Technician
Reports to	The Radiographer and Program Manager-Laboratory
Scheduled Work Time	Monday – Friday (Flexibility, willing to travel and work weekends)
Location:	Lagos State

Opening Date: 16/04/2024

Closing Date: 29/04/2024

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the STL, SLA, and Radiographer, the Medical Imaging/X-ray Technician will perform radiological duties in compliance with international standards using a mobile digital x-ray backpack unit. S/he will also perform selected administrative, and clerical duties that assist in the delivery of quality radiography for the purposes of screening clients for TB in a mobile environment as part of an Active TB Case Finding (ACF) & Contact Investigation team in close collaboration with the National and State TB Programs.

Responsibilities:

Conducting screening of clients to identify presumptive TB for digital x-ray examination when applicable.
Preparing the client for radiological procedures.
Taking measures to protect clients, oneself, and other staff from radiation exposure according to best practices and manufacturer’s guidelines.
Taking quality diagnostic radiographs of clients according to established procedures for patient care and safety.
Ensuring maximum of two and half minutes is spent per client for x-ray, while maintaining a repeat rate of two percent or less.
Accurately documenting completed radiological procedures, completely and promptly
Storing all radiographs in an easily retrievable manner.
Ensuring that all equipment is in good working condition and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Reporting immediately any equipment malfunctions to the State Lead.
Maintaining mobile x-ray unit, stocking necessary radiological supplies.
Making suggestions to improve work methods.
Serving as the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO).
Keeping record of the dosimetry readings.
Train new employees.
Working closely with the other team members for the purposes of prompt diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Performing any other tasks as directed by the supervisor.
Perform every other duty necessary for the successful implementation of TB LON 3 project activities.

Required competencies.

a. Core requirements

Demonstrate knowledge of Portable Digital X-ray guidelines and policies.
Excellent personal communication skills in written and verbal English Strong verbal and written communication skills
Advanced computer usage skills with proficiency in Ms. Word, excel and power point.
Ability to work independently and deliver quality work on time.
Good interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a team.
High impact influencing and persuasive skills, and able to represent the organization to donors and other stakeholders.
Experience in building capacity at individual and organizational levels.

b. Educational qualification(s) and experience

National diploma in Medical Imaging processing/x-ray technician.
Current Permit to practice from Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN).
Good computer skills, including familiar and comfortable with using MS Excel.
Attention to details.
Flexibility across a range of field and office related tasks
Good attitude, self-motivated and ability to work well individually as well as in a team.
Two years’ work experience in any radiography field.
A license according to the state laws.
Experience with a non-governmental organization will be an added advantage.