PREVALENCE OF HIV AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG FEMALE SEX WORKERS IN NON-BROTHEL ESTABLISHMENTS IN CHIRO TOWN, WEST HARARGHE, EASTERN ETHIOPIA

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