Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
JOURNALISTS have been urged to adopt a more compassionate and solutions-oriented approach when reporting on HIV treatment interruptions, with health experts warning against narratives that stigmatise people living with HIV.
Speaking at a Ministry of Health and Child Care Lenacapavir and HIV Prevention Media Training Workshop in Bulawayo, OPHID Technical Director Dr Pugie Chimberengwa said HIV treatment adherence fatigue is a real challenge affecting many patients on lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART).
Dr Chimberengwa described adherence fatigue as the emotional and psychological exhaustion that can develop after years of daily medication.
“Imagine taking a pill every 24 hours without fail for 10, 20 or even 40 years. Adherence fatigue is the inevitable burnout that comes from the constant reminder of a chronic illness,” he said. He noted that many patients who achieve viral suppression and begin feeling healthy may mistakenly believe the danger has passed, leading to missed doses or treatment interruptions. Dr Chimberengwa urged journalists to move away from blaming patients and instead examine how health systems can better support long-term treatment adherence.
He also discouraged the use of labels such as ‘defaulter’, saying they reduce complex personal struggles to a single negative description.
“Accurate and empathetic reporting can help reduce stigma, promote support systems and encourage people living with HIV to remain engaged in care,” he said.
