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AIDS: ARVs always free

Assurance has been given yesterday by the Minister of Health, during a briefing on the fight against major pandemics.

AIDS

An estimated 543 000, the number of people living with HIV. Among them, 164 000 are eligible for antiretroviral treatment and the active file of patients on ARVs increased from 17 156 in 2005 to 75 900 in late 2009. Completely free of drugs in Cameroon since May 2007. To address this pandemic and the other two that are malaria and tuberculosis, the country enjoys the support of the Global Fund since 2003. "Cameroon has submitted 20 bids for nine calls for proposals launched by the Global Fund between 2002 and 2009, according to Andre Mama Fouda. And the 20 submissions, eight were eligible. Respectively in 2003 for the three pandemics, in 2004 for AIDS, 2005 for malaria and AIDS. But in 2009, only malaria and tuberculosis will be funded by this international organization. But there is no concern to be anyway. "I would like to reassure all Cameroonians, and especially our compatriots in treatment measures are already taken to ensure no disruption of free ARVs and medicines against opportunistic infections," said the MOH. Indeed, a financing agreement amounting to eight billion francs over two years for the continuation of services is underway for people living with HIV / AIDS December 31, 2009. In addition, the MOH budget has provided for the purchase of ARVs and care for people beginning treatment in 2010.

On malaria and tuberculosis

Malaria, the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in our country is at the forefront of public health concerns. Therefore, with funding from the Global Fund, three main actions are carried out continuously. These anti-vector with the distribution of mosquito nets, or intermittent preventive treatment in pregnant women. With regard to support rapid and effective strategy of support at home has been implemented since 2007, although it remains to be completed. "We will take steps to ensure that community relays are more visible," assured the minister. Steps were taken to a crisis of uncomplicated malaria can be treated at lower cost. 70 F for children and $ 200 for adults, in public structures.