HIV/TB/STIs

TB is the top cause of death in the 15-24-year age group, and HIV ranks second, according to StatsSA. HIV, TB, and STIs remain significant health threats. Students are urged to utilize Higher Health’s monthly First Things First campus health and wellness days for vital health information, screenings, and access to sexual and reproductive health products.

Easy Access

Higher Health facilitates easy access to HIV testing on campuses, ensuring confidentiality and non-stigmatised testing environments. Counselling services are provided for students who test positive and guidance on managing the impact of HIV/AIDS on academic and personal life.

Effective Tools

Students are also advised and provided with PrEP, an effective tool that can reduce transmission by up to 99% when taken consistently.

New Infections

The Human Sciences Research Council’s 2017 HIV survey found that rate of HIV incidence among young women was three times the rate among young men – that is, 1.51% compared to 0.49%. This translates to 66 000 and 22 000 new infections a year respectively.

Adolescent Girls

About 28% of all new HIV infections in South Africa are currently occurring among adolescent girls and young women aged 15-24 years. When it comes to TB, young men are more at risk than young women, although the burden is highest among slightly older men.