Injectable ARVs give hope to fighting HIV
Monday, December 05, 2022 | 1110 Views |
Big leap: The injectable ARV provides significant to HIV patients PIC: ILOVEAFRICA.COM
The Minister of Health (MoH) Edwin Dikoloti announced that Botswana has approved the use of injectable anti-retroviral drugs to improve adherence to HIV treatment, becoming just the second country in Africa to do so. Taking a pill every day at a particular time is not only emotionally draining to people living with HIV but also an inconvenience to others. Many people have defaulted due fear of discrimination and stigma, as well other personal circumstances which make taking a pill every day inconvenient.
The injectable ARV can be taken once every two months, meaning just six injections, as opposed to the daily ARV pill.
Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...