Setting: Brothel based female sex workers in Abakaliki metropolis, Ebonyi State.
Objective: To determine the HIV prevalence, knowledge of sexually transmitted
infections (STIs)/HIV, and sexual behavior of brothel-based female sex workers
(FSWs)
Methods: Using a cross-sectional descriptive design, data was collected from a
total population sample of 85 female sex workers in three brothels located in the
town. HIV diagnosis was made using rapid test kits according to the national
algorithm. Presumptive STIs diagnosis was made syndromically.
Results: HIVprevalence among this group was 18.8% while 35.3% had symptoms
of STIs. Misconceptions exist in the FSWs' knowledge of HIV transmission and
STIs/HIV prevention methods as 20% believe that mosquito transmits HIV;
63.5% douche, 60% take antibiotics and 36.5% consume local gin ('Ogogoro')
after sex while 15.3% take antibiotics before sex as means of preventing STI/HIV
transmission; 8.2% felt no need for HIV screening since there is no cure for
HIV/AIDS. Condom use by client was significantly related to FSW previous
history of HIVtesting.
Conclusion: HIV prevalence among this high risk group is four times higher than
the state average. Despite high knowledge of HIV/STIs, misconceptions exist
concerning means of transmission and relevance of regular HIVtesting.