2014-12-01Staff Report 2 WINDHOEK - The Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Richard Kamwi, says there is need to work hard in order to eliminate HIV infections which are still increasing in Namibia. Kamwi yesterday spoke to New Era saying even though much has been done to fight HIV/AIDS in Namibia “there is need to redouble our efforts to look at zero HIV infections because HIV infections are still on the rise.” “Ten years ago AIDS killed many Namibians compared to any other disease,” said Kamwi. However, given the good governance in this country, HIV-positive people were put on free antiretroviral treatment at state hospitals where they do not pay anything. He noted that 85 percent of HIV-positive Namibians are on life-saving antiretroviral treatment. In addition, the country has fared well in the area of prevention of HIV transmission from mother to child with over 90 percent success. “AIDS-related deaths have declined significantly as we now have treatment in place,” said Kamwi. Kamwi is today expected to launch the latest sentinel survey. The latest survey will be released as Namibians and the world observe World Aids Day. By Alvine Kapitako 2014-12-01Staff Report 2
