Chiefs call for HIV tests

CHIEFS in Munda, Western Province, want community members suspected of carrying the HIV virus to undergo tests. The chiefs agreed on this last week, after those suspected of contracting the killer disease, are being stigmatised in the community.A spokesman for the chiefs said the only way to clear the air is for those suspected to undergo tests."It is not good to see people suspected of living with the virus stigmatised in the community,” the spokesman said."They need to undergo tests to clear their names,” the spokesman said.Already a man was jailed for three months for spreading rumors and naming those allegedly living with the virus.Solomon Star correspondent in Munda, Brian Beti, earlier said names of the HIV positive cases were released by medical officers from Helena Goldie Hospital during a drinking session.Solomon Islands National Aids Council (SINAC) has already taken steps to investigate those behind the rumours.



Source: SIBC