YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–The number of HIV-infected persons has doubled in the past year–as now–54 HIV-infected individuals are registered in Armenia–10 of whom are diseased.
The death rate has also increased–and no children among HIV- infected people has been reported.
Such a rate of increase–as noted by Lev Zohrabian–Director of the Republican Center for AIDS control and prevention–is extremely dangerous for Armenia’s people. Zohrabian avoided making any prognosis for the future–and noted that the situation may change because of the influence of many factors.
To implement an anti-AIDS program–the Center applied for financial assistance to the largest banks of Armenia. Two banks refused in written form–and 16 others have not responded. That fact–according to Zohrabian–reflects a complete incomprehension of the situation.
Obviously–he noted–broad education is necessary. Following a decision by Armenia’s health ministry–an education campaign will start in 30 schools in Yerevan. Financial aid will be provided by the UN AIDS international organization.