AEGiS-IRIN: SOUTH AFRICA: Only 15 percent of HIV-positive receiving ARVs

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2005. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

SOUTH AFRICA: Only 15 percent of HIV-positive receiving ARVs

Integrated Regional Information Networks News - November 22, 2005

[This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]

JOHANNESBURG, 22 November (PLUSNEWS) - A joint UNAIDS and World Health Organisation report revealed on Monday that South Africa's anti-AIDS drug rollout plan was not reaching its intended target.

According to 'AIDS Epidemic Update 2005', just 85 percent of South Africans in need of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) had still not received them by the middle of this year, despite the country being one of those hardest-hit by the AIDS pandemic.

Highlighting estimates and new AIDS trends, the report said the pandemic had evolved at an "astonishing speed" in South Africa, with national adult prevalence of less than 1 percent in 1990 soaring to almost 25 percent within 10 years.

Meanwhile, the South Africa department of health has said government inaction before 1994 was the main reason why HIV infection had not been curbed.

"It was only after the advent of democracy that tangible efforts were made by government to curb the spread of HIV infection; provide treatment, care and support for those infected and affected; and address the stigma associated with HIV and AIDS," the South African Press Association quoted the department as saying.

051122
IR051157

Copyright © 2005 - Integrated Regional Information Networks (IRIN). Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the Integrated Regional Information Network. .

AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from 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Always watch for outdated information.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 2005. 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 – 2005. 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. .