Integrating WASH and HIV Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Training Package

HIV vs. AIDS Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) A virus that infects important white blood cells, called CD4 T-cells, causing a weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to certain illnesses Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) The state of having a weakened immune system due to HIV infection Defined as a CD4 cell count below 200

Immunodeficiency and Opportunistic Infections When a person living with HIV is not on treatment, the disease will progress to cause immunodeficiency, or the state of having a weakened immune system. Opportunistic Infections (OIs) are a group of infections and cancers that take advantage of an immune system weakened by HIV. Common OIs include pneumonia, tuberculosis, Kaposi’s sarcoma, and wasting syndrome.

How HIV is Transmitted Fluids that transmit HIV Blood Semen Vaginal fluid Pre-ejaculate Breast milk “Doors” where HIV can enter the body Tip of the penis Vagina Open wounds/sores Needle sticks For HIV to be transmitted, one of these fluids must pass through a “door.”

HIV Treatment Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) A combination of at least three drugs taken together to interrupt the life cycle of the virus, thus stopping the progression of the disease. Must be taken carefully to avoid drug resistance. Together with care and support services, ART offers people living with HIV the opportunity to live a long and healthy life.

WASH Considerations for PLHIV: Teach Back Activity In six groups, read your corresponding section of the WASH Considerations for People Living with HIV handout. Take 10 minutes to prepare for the group a two-minute “teach back” of the material in your section.

Basic Care Package Often distributed through community health workers Includes materials such as: Cotrimoxazole medication to prevent certain OIs, oral rehydration salts, bed nets, condoms, and materials on positive living Safe water system, which often includes chlorine bleach to treat water Instructions for handwashing

WASH, HIV, and Stigma HIV cannot be transmitted through water, saliva, urine, or feces. Dispelling this myth can help reduce stigma for PLHIV. WASH interventions for PLHIV should use locally available products so households are not immediately identified as HIV-affected.

Activity: Actions Plans with Scenarios In three groups, read the scenarios. Using the Action Plan Worksheet, take 20 minutes to discuss the scenarios and fill out the worksheet questions. Prepare a four-minute presentation to present your scenario and action plan to the group.