CONTENTS | ANB-BIA HOMEPAGE | WEEKLY NEWS
by Mathieu C. Ramasiarisolo, Madagascar, Oct. 1998
THEME = AIDS
The AIDS epidemic
in Madagascar is still relatively restricted,
but immediate action must be taken to check it
In 1990, the Bishops of Madagascar published a document entitled "AIDS is a grave threat to both family and society". This means that already eight years ago, the people of Madagascar had been placed on red alert by authoritative "voices" in Madagascar. At that time, nobody was reported as having AIDS, and no scientific data was available to estimate how many people were to be considered HIV-positive. In spite of this lack of information, the bishops wanted to warn the population in advance so that the worst could be avoided.
Madagascar is one of the few countries where the HIV virus has not affected large numbers of the population. Nevertheless, the signs are there, which could have a future impact on the country's socio- economic situation. It's more a case of "forewarned is forearmed".
The first case of HIV in Madagascar was recorded in 1987. Presently, there are twenty AIDS cases already notified, and probably 130 cases not notified. Statistics provided by the National Referral Laboratory for Sexually Transmitted Diseases/AIDS are collected each year. But these statistics are insufficient to estimate the real number of people HIV-positive in Madagascar. They could number about 5,000. They don't show any sign of being infected and they don't even know anything's wrong with them. Judging from the number of people with STDs, about a million people in Madagascar are in danger of being infected with the HIV virus.
Dr. Marie Claire Ravaoarimalala works with the National Programme for Fighting AIDS/STD. She says: "Madagascar is in the fortunate position of being able to avoid an AIDS explosion in the near future. On this account, measures taken right at the start of the epidemic are especially effective. Obviously, those who already have the disease, must be advised on what's to be done. But it's also all-important that preventative measures are taken among groups at risk. This means: Informing people about AIDS; educating local communities on AIDS-related issues and methods of controlling STDs; encouraging the use of condoms; tracking down new HIV cases. The AIDS epidemic is not yet a disaster; but we've got to act together and face up to the fact that AIDS is now present in our country."
Since the National Referral Laboratory was established in Antananarivo in 1990, all the data concerning the HIV virus and AIDS has been centralised there. The first case of HIV infection was registered in 1987 and the first two cases of AIDS in 1988. Since then, a system for checking on the disease has been established in 17 centres throughout the country. The public and private health services provide the necessary data which is then passed on to the appropriate authorities. Each year, more than 2,000 pregnant women are tested for AIDS during their pre-natal checkups. In addition to data obtained from pregnant women, groups ascertained to be "at risk" are also checked - especially prostitutes. The data indicates to the authorities, the extent of AIDS in Madagascar. It's done by drawing attention to the growing number of people infected.
AIDS can result in death, especially among adults less than 49 years old. Because of the AIDS epidemic, the annual population growth rate will fall from 2.8% to 2.1% (when there's a mild epidemic) and down to 1.4% (when there's a severe epidemic). So, by the year 2015, Madagascar might experience a decrease in the number of available workers and consequently, an economic deficit. Signs of this will be in the number of unfilled vacancies and in diminishing production rates.
A number of activities are taking place in Madagascar to combat AIDS, in particular those undertaken through The National Programme for Fighting AIDS/STDs. These activities include: Informing the general public about AIDS; preventing the passing on of AIDS through sexual intercourse and by using contaminated blood in transfusions; keeping an eye on the epidemic situation; organising research projects; running and coordinating a multi-sectoral programme for controlling STD/AIDS. Consolidating and spreading these activities is all-important. Therefore, appropriate programmes must be established targeting groups at risk, especially those patients already having other STDs; and prostitutes. The programmes include screening tests and when needed, providing the necessary medical treatment. Groups reckoned to be "at risk" have to realise that help is available, and this can be done by means of awareness campaigns, and appropriate educational, information and training courses.
Since 1997, a number of people in charge of Catholic education in four dioceses (out of the 18 in Madagascar) have been working with the National Programme for Fighting AIDS/STDs. The aim is to prepare a programme syllabus for teaching pupils in Madagascar's Catholic schools, as to how AIDS/STDs can be prevented. Both parents and teachers are involved in the programme. Pupils must be shown the importance of exemplary sexual behaviour, firmly rooted in human and Christian values.
An example: For the last three years, the Education Department of the Diocese of Mahajanga has organised a discussion group of parents and clergy. Participants have been specially trained in a number of areas such as the syllabus (mentioned above) for teaching pupils how AIDS/STDs can be prevented, and in health education. The discussion group got off the ground in Mahajanga town and has since spread to representatives from other educational establishments around the town. Also, the Diocesan Health Commission carries out frequent visits to the universities.
Catholic media organisations make regular contributions to the awareness campaigns, emphasising the importance of correct sexual behaviour according to Christian values. During the course of its broadcasts dealing with health matters, Radio Don Bosco in Antananarivo has frequently tackled the subject of AIDS/STD.
The AIDS epidemic in Madagascar is in its early days, but it's essential to take immediate action so that it doesn't spread. Fresh enthusiasm must be injected into measures already taken, and new means taken as a matter of urgency. Government ministries and non- governmental organisations (NGO)s can all contribute in a common effort.
Because of what could happen, the Catholic Church in Madagascar reminds its faithful and all those of good will, about their responsibilities and the dignity of the human person. The Bishops put it this way: "It's not our intention to train specialists in AIDS-related issues, but to encourage all Christian men and women who are willing and able, to organize awareness campaigns within their own communities, so that people can be warned against the danger".
In short, the fight against AIDS is not the concern of just the health-care professionals. It's everyone's concern. AIDS will only be overcome by a joint and lasting effort by all those who really care for their country's future, and the well-being of future generations.
END
CONTENTS | ANB-BIA HOMEPAGE | WEEKLY NEWS
PeaceLink 1999 - Reproduction authorised, with usual acknowledgement