Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
South African Press Association - September 26, 2006
"I challenge you to read all my statements and show me where this minister ever said it was an alternative. It is not," Tshabalala-Msimang told reporters at media briefing on developments in government's social cluster.
Blaming reporters for confusing the public and not being informed enough, Tshabalala-Msimang said government's message was simple: "Accelerated prevention, prevention and prevention."
She warned that if the prevention message was not spread the cost of dealing with HIV/Aids would get out of hand.
"The cost is just going to be enormous because we could do nothing but spend money on this one condition," she said.
At the same time she again stressed the use of garlic, olive oil, lemon and beetroot as part of a diet for those living with HIV.
"It is not a substitute for medical treatment, but it helps in maintaining optimal health."
Tshabalala-Msimang also highlighted the contra-indications of antiretroviral (ARV) medicines, saying it was her duty to speak about it.
However, government was "determined" to make ARVs available to those people whose CD4 count was under 200.
"At least 178 635 people were initiated on antiretroviral therapy by June 2006," she said.
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