Fishermen warned against multiple sexual partners

Fishermen operating at Busana Landing Site in Buikwe district have been cautioned against having sex with multiple partners to reduce risks of contracting HIV/AIDS.

The call was made by medical specialists from St John Ambulance Uganda at a health camp on Thursday where over 700 residents got free treatment.

Not only did residents receive HIV testing and counselling, but those with diarrhoea, malaria, dysentery, typhoid and bilharzia were tested and treated by the medics.

Julius Paul Muzale a clinician tasked fishermen to invest in preventing infection with HIV in fishing and stick to on one partner and look after their children as a way of addressing the spread of HIV.

"Having multiple partners increases your financial responsibility, risks you catching the disease or spreading it and leaves your family uninsured in case of bankruptcy. So, don't hesitate at testing, follow the medics' advice and avoid sexual intercourse with multiple partners," Muzale said.

He also reminded the fishing community that the epidemic was likely to jeopardise food security if most of them lost the ability to fish.

"Food security is likely to be at risk as AIDS may reduce the ability of fishing communities to supply fish, yet fish products to those low-income groups," he said.

Pregnant mothers were given antenatal care; those in need of family planning were served, whereas fishermen and cyclists were given condoms.

Justine Nakintu, the programme coordinator, cautioned the residents to stay away from alcoholism since it is another cause of the spread of AIDS' and family conflicts.

"Engage in productive activities that will increase your standard of living than drinking alcohol. Too much of it risks your lives and hinders prosperity," Nakintu said.