MADAGASCAR: Madagascar Makes Progress by Taking HIV Seriously

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2007. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

MADAGASCAR: Madagascar Makes Progress by Taking HIV Seriously

Grand Rapid Press (12.25.07) - Friday, December 28, 2007

Although it has the lowest HIV rate in sub-Saharan Africa, less than one percent, Madagascar is waging one of the continent's most aggressive campaigns against the virus. The island nation has been protected thus far largely by its isolation, but the government fears that a more open economy and an influx of foreign workers could spread HIV. Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world and it has a high rate of STDs, a sign of vulnerability to HIV/AIDS.

Under the leadership of President Marc Ravalomana, who takes HIV tests in public, the national AIDS office has been placed in the presidential palace, where its head, Dr. Fanjaniaina Rajoelisolo, can report to the president at a moment's notice. Billboards and posters spread prevention messages to this nation of some 19 million people, and condoms are readily available. More than 100 testing centers have been established, with mobile testing units sent to remote areas. By the end of this year, the government hopes to have distributed 400,000 HIV test kits.

At-risk groups, including youth under age 19 who make up half Madagascar's population, receive special attention. Teachers are trained in conveying HIV/AIDS prevention messages; young people are offered check-ups at a discount; and training kits are passed out to scout troops.

In addition to prevention, the government is helping HIV/AIDS patients. In August, the island passed the first law in Africa that fines those who discriminate against patients or disclose their status.

The country has made antiretroviral treatment readily available and hopes to have 90 percent of HIV patients on ARVs within five years. The HIV/AIDS campaign is augmented by a general effort to expand clinics, hire more doctors, and upgrade health care.

"On HIV and AIDS, Madagascar is the only country in Africa that is getting it right," said Dr. Hugo Templeman, a South Africa-based AIDS specialist who advises Ravalomana on combating the disease.
071228
AD072695

Copyright © 2007 - Information, Inc., Bethesda, MD. The CDC National Center for HIV, STD and TB Prevention provides the following information as a public service only. Providing synopses of key scientific articles and lay media reports on HIV/AIDS, other sexually transmitted diseases and tuberculosis does not constitute CDC endorsement. This daily update also includes information from CDC and other government agencies, such as background on Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) articles, fact sheets, press releases and announcements. Reproduction of this text is encouraged; however, copies may not be sold, and the CDC HIV/STD/TB Prevention News Update should be cited as the source of the information. Contact the sources of the articles abstracted below for full texts of the articles.

AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Boehringer Ingelheim, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, AIDS Walk of Orange County, and donations from users like you.

Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2007. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 2007. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content.