Abstract:
: Female Sex workers are considered a high-risk groups acquiring human
immunodeficiency virus infection due to sex work behavior, yet the reported prevalence
varies in studies around the world. The aim of this study was to assesses the prevalence of
Human Immunodeficiency Virus and associated factors among female sex workers in
Chiro town, Eastern Ethiopia, 2019.Method:A community based cross-sectional study
methods was employed among 276 female sex workers from 25th November 2019 to
30th December 2019in Chiro town. A standardized, pretested and structured interviewer
administered questionnaire, and Rapid Diagnostic Testing tools for blood specimen were
used to collect the data. The study participants were selected by employing multistage
cluster sampling technique. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was employed
to determine the association between dependent and explanatory variables. Statistically
significant level was declared at P-value less than 0.05. Result:The prevalence of HIV
was found 12.3%.After adjustment;age 23 years and older, (AOR: 5.411 (95% CI: 1.235,
23.701)), alcoholic drink before sex (AOR : 0.05 (0.003, 0.77)), history of blood
transfused (AOR: 4.34 (95% CI: 1.40, 13.45)) compared to those who had no, more than
5 years’ duration in sex work (AOR: 5.98 (95% CI: 1.86, 19.23)), having had non-paying
partner (AOR: 5.13 (95% CI: 2.08, 12.70)) and those tested for HIV (AOR: 5.26 (95%
CI: 2.17, 12.78)) compared to not testedwere found a significant predictor of HIV.
Conclusion and Recommendation:Based on our findings, we conclude that HIV
prevalence are (> 5%) high among FSWs in Chiro Town. A strong specific prevention
program to avert HIV infection and other STIs transmission to their clients; and proper
treatment should be reinforced. Current programs sponsored by the Ministry of Health
can help to fight against stigma and discrimination against sex workers – specifically,
promoting outreach approach to test and treat all HIV FSWs; testing and treating other
STIs among FSWs using rapid tests in their community and improve prevention program
for HIV and other STIs reduction. Strengthening HIV and STIs prevention program
including condom distribution in the community, training peer educators to be involved in
program implementation and linking FSW’s community to care provider in confidential
way. Organizing a regular campaign for HIV and STIs testing and treatment in the
community. Supporting income generating activities and regular mentorship in order to
improve the poor socio-economic status of most of FSWs
