BULAWAYO Following the recent release of statistics that Matabeleland has the highest Aids prevalence in Zimbabwe, Bulawayo has opened two new sites for disbursement of antiretroviral drugs, with more than 15 000 receiving assistance.In the 2008/2009 annual report, Magwegwe and Emakhandeni Clinics were opened as new sites to provide HIV positive TB patients with ARV medication. The international union against tuberculosis and lung disease entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the council to support the provision of HIV care to patients suffering from TB, said Bulawayo Mayor, Thaba Moyo.
Antiretroviral therapy beneficiaries at municipal clinics numbered 10 797 on ARV treatment and 4 536 on cotrimoxazole prophylaxis. The Mayor said council clinics were also offering treatment of parent to child HIV transmission.