HIV & AIDS

The prevalence of HIV in the Eastern Cape is increasing. ECAC's review of the multisectoral response in the province shows that there is a need for intensification with regard to the response concerning the pandemic in terms of the scale, scope and rate of response.

 

The epidemiology report shows that the spread of HIV in the Eastern Cape is accelerating after a period of slower increase. Current HIV prevalence among Antenatal attendants is 28%. A striking feature is also that HIV prevalence among youth is disproportionately high compares to adults as well as in comparison to growth trends among the youth in other provinces. It is projected that in 2010 HIV prevalence will peak at 16% of the provincial population and the AIDS death rate will peak in 2013.

 

As an indication of the rate of response needed in treatment care and support, there are approximately 96 000 people currently needing ARV treatment in the province. The number of orphans in the province, who are eligible for foster placement, stood at 116 000 in 2003 and is expected to grow to 328 000 by 2010.