The National Infectious Disease Control Unit
The National Infectious Disease Control Unit was established in 2002 to respond to the continuing spread of HIV and other sexually-transmitted infections; emerging and re-emerging infections like, tuberculosis and avian influenza.
Mission: To respond to the threat posed by existing and emerging infectious diseases and provide care treatment and support for persons infected with and affected by these diseases.
Vision: We envision a people with positive attitudes and healthy lifestyles resulting in the reduction of HIV/AIDS, other sexually-transmitted infections and the elimination of stigma and discrimination.
Objectives: The main objectives of the National Infectious Disease Control Unit are:
- To reduce the impact of infectious diseases on the individual the family and the society
- To control the spread of sexually transmitted infections including HIV and other infectious diseases
- To arrest the progress of the AIDS epidemic
- To facilitate the management of any emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.
NIDCU focuses on 6 strategic areas in accordance with the World Health Organization’s Global Programme for HIV/AIDS. The six strategic areas are:
- Programme management
- Counseling
- Education
- Surveillance
- Diagnosis and Treatment
- Condom distribution
These six areas guide the Unit in its prevention and control mandate.
Clients are seen at a clinic in St George’s.
The Unit is staffed as follows:
- Medical officers
- Counsellor
- Surveillance Nurses
- Health Promotion Officer
Clients are seen at a clinic in St George’s, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.
Services offered:
- Counseling
- Management of sexually transmitted infections
- HIV Testing and counseling
- Management of HIV infected persons, including provision of antiretroviral medication and medication for opportunistic infections
- Referrals to support services, like social services, ophthalmology
- Home care
- Free Condoms