RE: STACH Short Story Contest #21: 199 words, 5 winners, 15SBD prize pool!

As they returned home from the state library, thoughts of the recent HIV awareness campaign which took place in their school occupied Musa and Mustapha. "Have you known your HIV status?”Musa asked his friend. Mustapha was surprised to get the unexpected puzzle.

“Why do you remind me of HIV screening? Do I look like someone about to pick a wife to marry?

"Wa-o-o-o-o. Do you strictly tie HIV screening to marriage? It is a reasonable practice in the health circle to arm yourself with your current HIV status. Wise men often say that, ‘A Stitch in Time Saves Nine,’” Musa explained. “Timely knowledge of a person's HIV status enables the person to update his medical prognosis. Mrs keinde of the blessed memory died from a full blown AIDS few years ago because her ailment was not noticed early enough. Many persons today live normal healthy life with HIV/AIDS by means of modern medical technology. Early diagnosis of many deadly diseases like cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney and liver problems help the victim to live a little longer."

"Thanks for this edifying medical seminar." Mustapha said gratefully to his well-informed friend, Musa.