A recent report
prepared by the University of
Indonesia predicts that
almost 12,000 to 3 1,000 people in the country will die of
AIDS by the turn of the century. A poor medical surveillance system and resistance
to use of contraceptives are
aggravating the situation.
There are conflicting
reports about the number of
Hiv and AIDS cases in the
country. Official figures say
that only 465 people have
AIDS or are infected with HIV.
Of these cases, 355 are HIV-
positive while 110 have full-blown AIDS. However, the
new report puts the number
Of AIDS deaths in Indonesia
between 2,957 and 7,393.
Government figures put the
death toll at 66. Most cases
are not recorded because
they are not diagnosed by
doctors.
Moreover, if someone
dies, it is recorded as tuberculosis or pneumonia, but its
possible link to AIDS is often
ignored, said Ann-Marie
Fonseka, project officer with
the United Nation's Children's Fund in Jakarta.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.