Representations of HIV/AIDS and HIV status disclosure among serodifferent couples in Burkina Faso

Background: In Burkina Faso, the prevalence of HIV in serodifferent couples is comparable to that of some key populations. Our aim was to show the influence of HIV representation on the disclosure of HIV information in serodifferent couples. Methods: A cross-sectional qualitative study was carried out from January to September 2019 in the city of Bobo-Dioulasso in Burkina Faso. In-depth individual interviews and focus groups were conducted with each partner of the couple using interview guides. The data was subject to thematic content analysis. Results: The results show that more than three-quarters of the respondents did not share their HIV status. Those who had a negative attitude towards PLWHIV were less keen to share the information, considering that that HIV would transform the infected person negatively in the eyes of others. Also, sharing information was seen as a risk to the couple’s peace and stability. Others found the suffering of HIV so personal that it was difficult to share with others. Conclusion: People living with HIV, who see AIDS as a bad disease, fear the social effects of HIV and are therefore less favorable to disclose their HIV status. On the other hand, those who equated HIV with an illness like any other were keen to share information about their status.