Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2005. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
South African Press Association - September 3, 2005
Raphael Tenthani
Aids carries a strong stigma in this impoverished Southern African nation. An estimated 14% of Malawi's 11-million population carry the virus but only 3% have gone for voluntary testing, despite campaigns from government leaders.
Police spokesperson Enock Livason said the woman and her son had tested positive for the virus at a government hospital in northern Malawi.
"When she got home, she put her son, Paul down, took an axe and hit him in the head," he said. "She started cutting her son into pieces."
The woman, identified by police as Mary Mwagomba, also allegedly tried to kill herself but was restrained by neighbours.
According to Livason, she will be charged with infanticide and attempted suicide.
Malawi is one of the Southern African nations hardest hit by the Aids virus. Its people are extremely poor and poorly educated.
050903
SA050901
Copyright © 2005 - South African Press Association. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the South African Press Association, Cotswold House, Greenacres Office Park, Cnr. Victory & Rustenburg Roads, VICTORY PARK, PO BOX 7766, JOHANNESBURG, 2000; Fax No: +27 11 782-1587/8, Tel No: +27 11 782-1600.
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, 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Always watch for outdated information.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. .