HIV PREVALENCE IN A RURAL COMMUNITY OF NIGERIA

National sentinel surveys show that Iquita rural community in Nigeria with estimated 15,000 people with persistent high HIV prevalence. This study aimed at determining factors potentially contributing to the spread of HIV in this rural community. We administered structured questionnaire to one individual 15 to 70 years in randomly selected 350 households, and another questionnaire to 50 people living with AIDS receiving treatment at the general hospital. Results show knowledge of transmission was high among respondents 326 (93.1%) said through blood transfusion, and 317(90.6%) unprotected sex. Yet 20.0% said kissing/hugging 14.9% mosquitoes, 10.0% witches and wizards; and 64.6% God’s punishment for immorality. About 90% was sexually active with early onset, 26.9% had first sexual experience between 11 to 15 years. Last sexual encounter for 52.9% was with boy or girl friend, and 8.9% concubine and commercial sex worker, nearly 50% had more than one sexual partner; yet many did not like using condom because it was not pleasurable 62.1% males and 24.3% females. Results from those living with HIV show that 72.0 % of the fifty respondents did not know if other members of their family were infected; 38.0% did not protect their sexual partner, only 24.0% used condom, and 10.0% would not die alone. Hence, despite treatment, counselling, and knowledge of HIV transmission some respondents presumably did not want to proctect sexual partners. In conclusion, results suggest numerous factors fuelling the spread of HIV in Iquita, particularly multiple sexual partners, and reluctance to use protective measures. In-depth qualitative research is needed for deeper understanding persistent high HIV prevalence in this community, particularly on the behaviour of those living with HIV