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Kenya and Nigeria among various nations running out of HIV drugs - WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that eight countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, and Lesotho, could soon face shortages of HIV medication due to the U.S. government's decision to halt foreign aid. The funding freeze, enacted by President Donald Trump on his first day in office, is part of a broader review of government spending.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned that disruptions to HIV programs could reverse 20 years of progress, potentially leading to over 10 million new infections and three million additional HIV-related deaths. The pause in funding has severely impacted the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has provided life-saving antiretroviral (ARV) treatment to millions since 2003.
Sub-Saharan Africa, home to an estimated 25 million people living with HIV, is particularly vulnerable. WHO urges the U.S. to reconsider its stance, emphasizing that global health investments not only save lives but also prevent the international spread of diseases.
19-03-2025