December 1 is World AIDS Day, and around the world people became informed, got tested and supported friends family and people that have been infected. In South Africa, a country with one of the highest infection rates, they set out a plan to provide more care and antiretroviral drugs. In a speech on December 1, President Zuma said, "Let there be no more shame, no more blame, no more discrimination, and no more stigma. Let the politicisation and endless debates about HIV and AIDS end". Starting in April 2010, all children in South Africa under the age of 1 that test positive will receive antiretroviral drugs. Patients with tuberculosis, AIDS and pregnant women will receive the proper care. The funding for this is still questionable however the goal is admirable. South African clinics are already full of AIDS and HIV patients that including more will put a strain on the care givers. People are worried that there will be no way to enact these policies and that they will go unfulfilled. The US made an announcement to help South Africa out by providing an additional $120 million over the next 2 years to fight AIDS and HIV. In a kickoff to the campaign and to promote others to be tested, President Zuma is making his appointment to get tested himself.
-Sara Frodge
Source: Reuters
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