The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has introduced the Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) Optimization Toolkits in Nigeria. During the launch in Abuja, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized the toolkit’s role in improving pediatric Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) The National Coordinator of the National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and STIs Control Programme (NASCP), Adebobola Bashorun, who represented Prof. Pate, highlighted the collaborative effort involving NASCP, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), and the Ministry.
Prof. Pate emphasized that the lessons and tools presented hold potential for broader applications in elevating the overall quality of healthcare services. The Minister outlined plans for broader implementation across states, involving state government representatives and program coordinators. Addressing challenges in pediatric HIV coverage, he highlighted ongoing efforts to improve early infant diagnosis and reduce transmission rates, showcasing the nation’s proactive approach to enhancing healthcare outcomes.