Children's HIV ministry

The United Mission to Nepal supports its partner Nawa Jeevan Samaj Sewa (NJSS), a Christian Society in Sunsari that cares for 19 children affected by HIV. The impact of HIV on children and their families is not a simple issue with a simple solution or quick fix. When the HIV status of the child is known to be positive, preventive therapy against common opportunistic infections is always recommended as the standard care. The implementation of Antiretroviral drugs regimens to improve and extend the lives of children infected with HIV is considered whenever accessible and feasible. Yet, this is still a neglected area due to accessibility and the complexity of adequately implementing this service.

Nevertheless, concerted efforts to make Antiretroviral therapy available for children is being explored and strengthened in Nepal. The capacity of programmess for children living with HIV to provide adequate medical attention needs is being stressed. Even where Antiretroviral therapy may not be possible, better access to treatment of opportunistic infections help prolong lives, both for children and parents with HIV.

The family carers and guardians play a significant role when fully informed about preventing and caring for medical conditions though in some districts it is still underestimated. The Nepal Government, some International NGOs and National NGOs have child protection policies that are being brought into programmess and institutions. Some Children are affected by the changes in their parent’s emotional and physical state. They may not know what is happening to the parent and they become confused and frightened. Without proper support mechanisms, when a parent dies, children experience a profound sense of loss, grief, hopelessness, fear and anxiety. The role of the church is being built up to support affected all children and adults.