An investigation into the knowledge & attitudes of the community towards people living with HIV/AIDS

Abstract

The study investigated the knowledge and attitudes of the community towards people living with HIV/AIDS. The 1994 World Health organisation (WHO) statistics showed that 50% of all people living with HIV/AIDS worldwide are aged 15 - 24. Statistics from all Sub-Saharan countries on HIV show the same trend. The South African youths are of no exception; they are therefore an important intervention strategy group since they are part and parcel of the community. Most of the people who are living with HIV/AIDS are rejected, ostracized and discriminated against by their families, friends, relatives and their partners. Many such people living with HIV/AIDS have been abandoned. In the years to come people must in addition expect a huge influx of people living with HIV/AIDS due to the absence of a cure or a vaccine to prevent people contracting HIV. The findings that the community still lacks the right information on HIV/AIDS. They also have a few misconceptions about the epidemic. The study recommended that government has to come up with a legal framework to deal with issues related to AIDS. There is also a need to set up fund scheme for people living with HIV/AIDS. Communities need to mobilise support for relief schemes for people living with HIV/AIDS and encourage care and support. The NGO's need to embark more on lobbying and advocacy for law, legislation, policies, and regulations governing the welfare of people living with HIV/AIDS and their rights in general.