Burden and Drivers of HIV Infection among High-Risk Fisherfolk Populations along the Shores of Lake Victoria DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajhs.v38i2.1

Abstract

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) remain major public health challenges globally, contributing substantially to morbidity and mortality. The disease ranks sixth among the leading causes of illness and death in developing countries and third in Kenya. The burden of HIV/AIDS remains relatively high among high-risk groups, such as fisherfolk. This study aimed to determine the epidemiology of HIV/AIDS among the fishing community along the shores of Lake Victoria.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study enrolled 349 consenting members of the fisherfolk community, including boat crews, boat owners, fishmongers, and fish processors, along the beaches of Lake Victoria in Bondo, Siaya County, from 2023 to 2024. Blood samples were collected, and a detailed sociodemographic questionnaire was administered. HIV positivity was confirmed through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. Descriptive statistics characterised the population, while logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with HIV infection using STATA. The significance level was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results: Out of the 349 fisherfolk recruited, most, 165 (46.3%), were boat crew, and 41 (11.5%) had completed secondary education. Overall, 108 (71%) were male, and 247 (69.4%) were married. Notably, 152 (43.6%, n = 349) tested positive for HIV. In multivariate analysis, fisherfolk not living with their sexual partner (aOR 0.33; 95% CI 0.12–0.88, p = 0.029) and those on ARV (aOR 0.36; 95% CI 0.13–0.96, p < 0.045) were less likely to test positive for HIV.

Conclusions and recommendations: A large portion of the population in the fishing industry continues to test positive for HIV, indicating a high-risk group for infection. Living conditions and early ARV treatment are crucial in driving HIV infection rates among fisherfolk near Lake Victoria in Bonda.