The Sunday News
Robin Muchetu, Senior Reporter
THE World Health Organisation (WHO) says there is no known cure for HIV yet and all people on Antiretroviral Therapy in Zimbabwe must continue to take their medication to avoid compromising their health.
In response to recent media reports alleging the discovery of a cure for HIV and AIDS, by Prophet Walter Magaya of the Prophetic Healing Deliverance Ministries, Dr. Alex Gasasira WHO Representative to Zimbabwe said:
“There is no cure for HIV infection. However, effective antiretroviral (ARV) drugs can control the virus and help prevent transmission so that people with HIV, and those at substantial risk, can enjoy healthy, long and productive lives.
“The United Nations wish to reaffirm that to date, there is no known and proven cure for HIV infection, but effective treatment exists to manage the infection through antiretroviral therapy and drugs,”.
In a statement on Wednesday afternoon the United Nations representative said Zimbabwe has very well-established procedures for clinical trials. Clinical trials are the process by which any new medical approaches including drugs are rigorously evaluated to determine whether they are safe and effective in the prevention and/or treatment of any ailments.
“The United Nations in Zimbabwe wishes to remind and encourage any researchers involved in developing possible new treatments for any ailments, including HIV and AIDS to subject these to the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC) national clinical trial processes and procedures. The United Nations wishes to reiterate guidance provided by MOHCC to all clients on antiretroviral treatment for HIV and AIDS to continue their prescribed medication,” said Dr Gasasira.
He said:
“The use of antiretroviral treatment, in line with national guidelines, has resulted in better health outcomes for people living with HIV. Any decision to stop or switch medication should be taken with the full guidance of licensed medical practitioners. The United Nations wishes to also remind the public to continue to limit exposure to risk factors for HIV infection,”.
The United Nations further said it is supporting Zimbabwe to achieve the commitment to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Zimbabwe is well on track to achieve this as measured by the 2020 targets of 90-90-90 for treatment. By December 2017: 87 percent of people living with HIV knew their status; 74 percent of them were on treatment with 87 percent viral suppression among those on treatment.
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