Dar es Salaam– The Tanzanian Ministry of Health has issued a formal statement debunking a widely circulated video on social media that falsely claims individuals can identify people living with HIV based on physical appearance or behavioral traits.
The video, shared prominently on Instagram, features a woman identifying herself as "Mentor Chery" (alternatively spelled "Mentor Cherry") who claims to be living with HIV.
In the footage, she outlines what she alleges are visible signs of HIV infection, sparking alarm and misinformation among viewers across the region.
In response, the Ministry of Health has categorically refuted the claims, emphasizing that it is scientifically inaccurate and dangerous to suggest that HIV status can be determined by appearance alone.
Health officials have reiterated that the only reliable method to determine HIV status is through a certified medical test.
“The spread of false information particularly on public health matters poses a serious risk to community wellbeing and fuels stigma and discrimination,” the Ministry stated.
“We urge citizens to seek information from verified medical sources and avoid sharing unverified health content on social platforms.”he added
The Ministry further encouraged individuals who may be unsure of their HIV status, including those concerned after viewing or engaging with the content, to undergo voluntary and confidential HIV testing at local health facilities.
Public health authorities have also warned against the misuse of social media, noting that deliberate misinformation could trigger fear and social harm.
For accurate and confidential support regarding HIV and related health concerns, the Ministry urges the public to contact its toll-free helplines at 117 or 199.
This announcement forms part of broader efforts by Tanzanian authorities to combat misinformation, reduce HIV-related stigma, and promote public health literacy.