Australian Assistance to Tackle HIV/AIDS in Papua New Guinea

MEDIA RELEASE

Released By:
Downer

I am pleased to announce at the 12^th Australia-PNG Ministerial Forum a joint Australian/Papua New Guinea project to help PNG tackle HIV/AIDS. PNG is facing a major epidemic of HIV/AIDS, with an estimated 10,000 people already infected with HIV. This number is expected to increase to 25,000 by 2001. HIV/AIDS is currently the leading cause of death at Port Moresby General Hospital.

The joint National HIV/AIDS Support Project, to be managed by the National AIDS Council of PNG, will help in the prevention, control and management of HIV/AIDS. Activities in the areas of education and awareness raising, counselling and care, and clinical services, will improve the ability of clinical staff, government agencies and community groups to respond to HIV/AIDS.

A critical aspect of the project involves improving testing systems throughout the country so the prevalence of HIV/AIDS can be more accurately measured. Training of health workers and the development of STD manuals will help medical staff in the diagnosis and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

This project will implement PNG's multi-sectoral National HIV/AIDS Medium Term Plan (1998-2002). The plan recognises that HIV/AIDS has significant social and economic consequences, in addition to its impact on health. Combating HIV/AIDS is essential if PNG is to achieve its broader development goals.

I am pleased that Australia can share its knowledge and expertise in dealing effectively with HIV/AIDS to help PNG to meet the challenge of the growing epidemic.