A Kenyan nurse based in the United States, Nafula Sharleen, has sparked heated online discussions after sharing a candid and humorous warning about how sexually transmitted infections are handled under US public health systems.
In a viral Facebook post written in a mix of slang, humour and street language, Nafula painted a vivid picture of what she claims happens when someone tests positive for HIV, popularly referred to in her post as “Ukedi.”
“Ngori USA utake jua! Kama wewe ni msherati… hii story ni yako,” she wrote, suggesting that individuals diagnosed with an infection are required to disclose their recent sexual partners as part of contact tracing procedures.
According to her, once a patient tests positive, health authorities may step in to trace possible exposures in an effort to prevent further spread of the infection.
She claimed that patients are often asked to provide the names and contact details of people they have been intimate with.
“Ukipimwa uko positive unaambiwa uandike wasee wote ulipiga mechi nao na number zao za simu,” she wrote, adding that the process is coordinated by public health officials in collaboration with hospitals.
Nafula further described how individuals may later receive calls from health departments after being identified as potential contacts, urging them to go for testing and treatment.
“Morio ama babes umetulia kwa keja unaskia simu inaitana… Department of Health imekushika,” she added, noting that exposure tracing can escalate quickly once a case is reported.
She also highlighted that laws vary across US states, with some enforcing stricter reporting and partner notification requirements than others. In certain cases, failure to cooperate with health authorities may lead to legal consequences.
Nafula warned that what begins as a single diagnosis can quickly expand into a long list of traced contacts, particularly when individuals have had multiple partners.
“Kidogo kidogo ki list kinaendelea kujaa,” she wrote, cautioning against underestimating how rapidly contact tracing can widen investigations.
Despite the humorous tone of her message, the post has triggered mixed reactions online.
Some users praised her for simplifying an important public health issue in a relatable way, while others questioned the accuracy of her claims and her use of informal language.
Nonetheless, the post has reignited conversations around sexual health awareness, personal responsibility, and the importance of safe practices, especially among young people living abroad.
Nafula concluded her message with a blunt reminder: understanding local laws is essential, as health systems may operate very differently from what many people expect.