Challenges Facing HIV Discordant Couples in Kenya

Abstract

Since Kenya recorded its first case of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in 1984, the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic has evolved to become one of the central impediments to national health, well being and development. Prevalence of HIV serostatus discordance is high. There is therefore need to shed light on HIV discordance as most public communication on HIV revolves around individual counseling and testing. Public communication campaigns targeting couples are not as vibrant, memorable and personalized as massages targeting individuals. This paper will review literature on the causes of HIV discordance, the challenges faced by discordant couples and the public’ perception of HIV discordant couples. It will provide insight on the various HIV communication campaigns targeting couples, in a bid to establish whether these communication messages are effective in addressing the issue of discordance.