Estimated worldwide HIV infections: 46 496 650 at 12.58 pm on Thursday April 25
A testing time: AngloGold says its research data estimates that 29% of its workforce is HIV-positive. The company estimates this will increase its costs in its South African operations by between $4 (R44) and $6 (R66) an ounce. The company says its HIV/Aids policy aims to reduce the spread of the virus and also to prolong the lives of those already infected.
Empty classrooms: In Mozambique, a new study on the virus indicates that 17% of the country’s teachers will die in the next 10 years. Deputy Minister of Education Telmira Pereira said Aids is a leading cause of deaths among teachers. He also said the epidemic is common among youth in the urban areas and along key routes linking the country with South Africa and Zambia.
Dining for Aids orphans: About 1 600 people across the globe have committed themselves to hosting fund-raising dinners to benefit South African Aids orphans. Initiated by South Africans living in London, the event will be held on Freedom Day to collect funding for some 600 500 children orphaned by the epidemic. Projections estimate this will grow to 1,2-million orphans by 2005.
Source: www.redribbon.co.za and other news organisations|