HIV/AIDS
Press Statement
World Health Organization welcomes South African inititative to treat AIDS
20 November 2003 -- The World Health Organization welcomes the decision by the South African cabinet to approve a comprehensive HIV/AIDS treatment and care plan for the country. This is a vital step towards tackling AIDS in South Africa. This decision is a key contribution towards saving human lives and achieving the " 3 by 5" target of treating three million people living with AIDS in developing countries before the end of 2005.
" This is a far-reaching decision which demonstrates that the South African government is ready to play a stronger role in meeting the challenge of treating millions of people living with AIDS in Africa," said Dr LEE Jong-wook, Director-General of the World Health Organization. " WHO is ready to work closely with the government to support this effort."
The plan approved by the South African cabinet is a comprehensive and integrated plan linking antiretroviral treatment with prevention of HIV infection and care for all those affected by HIV/AIDS.
WHO strongly recommends that AIDS treatment, prevention and care be linked in an integrated approach. In several developing countries, the introduction of treatment programmes has had a catalytic impact. By providing hope for the infected and creating a powerful incentive for people to be tested and learn their HIV status, these programs have both reduced HIV-related stigma and accelerated prevention efforts.
The South African plan reflects many of the key priorities for WHO in striving for the " 3 by 5" target, including working closely with communities and particularly with People Living with HIV/AIDS.
WHO is finalising a detailed strategy to reach the " 3 by 5" target, which will be published on World AIDS Day, 1 December 2003.
habe ich soeben bei der WHO-Homepage gefunden
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