As today is World Aids Day, the World Health Organization has issued new advice on the treatment of HIV saying drugs should be given earlier and even be prescribed to breastfeeding mothers.
The WHO said adults and adolescents should receive anti-retroviral therapy when their immune system strength falls below 350 cells per cubic millimeter of blood. In 2006, the organization had set the level at 200 cells per cubic millimeter.
WHO Assistant Director General HIV/AIDS, Hiroki Nakatani said their widespread adoption will enable more people in high-burden areas to live longer and healthier lives.
The WHO also recommended pregnant women exposed to the virus could be treated with ant-retroviral drugs (ARVs) from the 14th week of pregnancy and that treatment could continue during breastfeeding.
Latest figures from the Health Ministry reveal that 303 people are confirmed to be living with HIV.
An estimated 33.4 million people worldwide are living with HIV/AIDS.
WHO issues new advice on HIV
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