KATHMANDU, NOV 29 - Since June 2002, 3000 more have been infected with HIV/AIDS in Nepal. UNAIDS/WHO latest figures has estimated the number of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) in Nepal to be 61,000.
In June 2002, UNAIDS had estimated the number to be 58,000. Many of the HIV/AIDS population belong to vulnerable groups like sex workers, injecting drug users, labour migrants and their families.
According to the latest report released on Tuesday, an estimated 40m people are living with HIV worldwide, including 2.5m children under the age of 15. Globally, an estimated five million people were newly infected and three million people died of AIDS in 2003.
Recently, the National Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nepal (NAP+N) was founded to provide a platform to voice the concern and needs of PLWHA. At a press meet organised here today at the UN House, the NAP+N voiced their concerns.
Gita Basyal, a member of the NAP+N said that there is a great problem amongst women and children living with HIV/AIDS. She said women are facing discrimination and stigmatisation from society.
Similarly, Rajiv Kafle, also a member of the NAP+N said that ARV treatment is almost non-existent in Nepal. He also criticised the government and donor agencies for failing to provide a machine for CD4 count. The present CD4 machine at the National Centre for AIDS and STD Control is out of use because of lack of funds.
However, Dr Klaus Wagner, Resident Representative of the WHO said that it was not necessary for a CD4 count before undergoing treatment. "The WHO will soon release new standards and guidelines for ARV treatment," he said.Posted on: 2003-11-28 11:27

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