Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2003. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
 |
New Vision (Kampala) - December 1, 2003
Uganda remains a shining example to the world in terms of its approach to the fight against HIV/Aids. According to the latest figures, HIV/Aids prevalent rates have fallen from about 20% ten years ago to 6%. This is no mean achievement. Part of the reason for the success is that Uganda has been open about the disease. Another big component has been our care for PLWA. But there is more to be done.
We have to reject all of discrimination against PLWA, at home or at the work place. The mere fact that some one has HIV does not mean that person cannot work.
With modern medicine, HIV positive people can live up to 20 years even beyond as Maj. Rubaramira Ruhanga testified recently. We need to give them comfort, to help them to continue living. But the PLWA must realise they must adhere to the prescribed drug regime if they wish to continue living.
The second point is about the debate on role models in the fight against HIV.
Concern has been raised about the role of Gaetano and his BBA housemates. This debate is as academic as it is diversionary.
We are at the frontline in the struggle against HIV. We need people who can shoot to the right targets. If the big Brother housemates can effectively deliver the message to our youth of the television generation; if they can turn their stardom into messengers of life, then let it be.
031201
NV031211
Copyright © 2003 - The New Vision. All articles are republished on AEGIS by permission. Material may not be redistributed, posted to any other location, published or used for broadcast without written authorization from Managing Director/Editor-in-chief, The New Vision, P.O. Box 9815, Kampala - Uganda, Tel/fax: 256-41-235221, E-mail: wpike@newvision.co.ug.
AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, Elton John AIDS Foundation, iMetrikus, Inc., John M. Lloyd Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2003. 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, 2003. 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. .