Date:08/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/08/stories/2006120802190900.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Call for zero HIV infections by 2007

Staff Reporter

People living with HIV rally for a positive outlook

HYDERABAD: In what is being billed as the biggest-ever gathering in the country of people living with HIV (PLH), over 3,000 PLHs from across Andhra Pradesh gathered at the sprawling premises of Shilparamam here on Thursday and signed the `Hyderabad Declaration.'

The declaration, a collective effort by individuals, organisations and agencies working on issues related to HIV/AIDS, includes a promise to ensure that through the `0/7 Campaign,' HIV infection in newborn children would be minimised and the aim of "zero infections' would be achieved by 2007.

The declaration, signed by Telugu Network of PLH (TNPLH) president A. Ramesh Babu and Andhra Pradesh AIDS Control Society project director G. Ashok Kumar, is divided into three categories with different aims and duties for PLHs, the Government and healthcare providers, and the people.

It was expected to help in improving access to treatment, support services and creating an environment for PLHs to lead their lives with respect, Mr. Kumar said. The `0/7 Campaign' would ensure that all pregnant women were tested for HIV. Those who test positive would be encouraged to access the necessary treatment. It would also help those in distress know their legal and human rights. PLHs would assist in dispelling myths about HIV/AIDS.