Special Programme on Sexually Transmitted Infections

Mission Statement

To reduce the spread and to minimise the impact of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmissible infections by behaviour modification and improved surveillance, diagnosis and treatment capabilities.

Areas of Technical Co-operation

SPSTI collaborates with member countries in the following key areas:

Epidemiological Surveillance and Research

	Use of epidemiological and forecasting data for sensitisation of decision makers
	Analysis and dissemination of surveillance reports
	Forecast the HIV/AIDS epidemic and its economical impact
	Assessment and strengthening of HIV/AIDS/STI surveillance systems
	Assist in identification of core data for decision making
	Development and implementation of special studies
	Transfer of data analysis and interpretation skills

Information, Communication and Targeted Behavioural Interventions

	Information dissemination
	Advice on, and support for, Information, Education and Communication (IEC) strategies
	Production and dissemination of multi-media IEC materials for print, radio, television
	Planning, implementation and evaluation of behavioural research and interventions
	Training of Health Educators, Media and Communications Personnel
	Evaluation of IEC strategies
	Surveys to assess knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices (KABP)
	Collaboration with NGO/CBOs

HIV/AIDS/STD Diagnostic and Clinical Management Advisory Services

	Training on management of STI and HIV/AIDS among adults and children
	Dissemination of HIV/AIDS information
	HIV and Syphilis confirmatory testing
	Assist in monitoring of Gonococcal resistance patterns
	Laboratory support for HIV/STI surveillance and for special studies
	Transfer of laboratory diagnostic technology for HIV and common STD
	Evaluation of new HIV/STI tests and advice to countries on appropriate tests
	HIV and Syphilis proficiency testing
	Facilitating sharing of HIV/STI information among laboratories in CMCs
	Development and provision of guidelines for the clinical management of HIV infection in adults and children
	Assessment and strengthening of STD services

	Development and monitoring of National Plans and workplans
	Enhancement of management skills of National AIDS Programmes and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
	Training on using the Logical Framework approach for project design
	Assisting Ministries of Health and other sectors to assess the costs of resources required to plan and implement sustainable HIV/AIDS prevention activities.
	Making available appropriate indicators to monitor programmes effectiveness and impact

Strategic Planning 1996-1998

CAREC has collaborated with member countries in formulating a strategic plan to meet the challenges presented by the dynamic nature of the AIDS epidemic and the economic and social changes in the global environment.
The 1996-1998 Strategic Plan which is consistent with the strategies enunciated by UNAIDS in 1995 is centered on four major issues:-

	Advocacy for Political and Organisational Commitment to prevent and control AIDS
	Interventions and Services for the reduction of HIV/STI transmission and their impact on individuals and communities
	Mobilisation and adequate management of financial resources
	Monitoring, Evaluation and Research.

The SPSTI Strategic Plan emphasises the involvement of the Private, Non-governmental and Community-based Sectors in AIDS prevention and control:

	Promotes the implementation of HIV/AIDS/STI education in the workplace
	Promotes the mobilisation of the sectors to collaborate and complement the efforts of the National AIDS Programmes to prevent and control the disease
	Promotes and advocates the involvement of the sectors in providing institutional and community-based care and support to persons infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.