Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1999. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
The Associated Press - Saturday, July 24, 1999
Pat Reber - Associated Press Writer
The minister, Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, and a large delegation will depart on Aug. 1, said Harm Pretorius, spokesman for the ministry.
About 10 percent of Uganda's 20 million citizens are estimated to be infected with the HIV virus that causes AIDS. But Uganda is the only African country where the infection rate is declining, to about half the level of a decade ago, according to World Bank figures.
President Yoweri Museveni led Africa's most aggressive public information campaign to control the spread of AIDS, and large roadside signs throughout Uganda urge the population to undertake protective measures.
The campaign is less visible in South Africa, where the government estimates 3.6 million South Africans in a population of 42 million are infected with the HIV virus -- or 8.6 percent. One-quarter of adults are infected in some areas.
Last year, former Deputy President Thabo Mbeki launched a nationwide fight against the disease, calling on young people to abstain from sex or at least use a condom.
Shortly before he was elected president in June, Mbeki admonished South African men to stop raping young girls in the mistaken belief it would cure AIDS.
The infection is mainly transmitted through heterosexual sex in Africa.
990724
AP990713
Copyright © 1999 - Associated Press. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the AP Permissions Desk.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1999. 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, 1999. 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. .