SA govt may declare AIDS as emergency

SA govt may declare AIDS as emergency
PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

DURBAN, MAR 12: The South African Government is considering to declare the AIDS pandemic as an "emergency" in order to clear way for the manufacture and import of affordable anti-AIDS drugs.

Director General of Health, Ayanda Ntsaluba told the local media here that the move would be discussed in Parliament in Cape Town on Wednesday.

``It would have to come from the President and one would have to look at it carefully,'' he said, adding "it might not be just straight forward as standing up and saying it's a National emergency."

The latest move follows action by about 40 international drug companies to oppose the government's aim to allow the manufacture and import of cheaper AIDS drugs.

Observors say if President Thabo Mbeki declares a state of emergency, pharmaceutical companies from developed countries, including India, would be allowed to manufacture affordable patented AIDS drugs.