The Sub Sahara region continues to battle with the HIV and AIDS pandemic as the most affected region in the world. Zimbabwe had an estimated prevalence of HIV pegged at 13.6% in 2010. By the end of 2009, approximately 1,1 million people in the country were living with HIV and AIDS.
Although the estimated annual AIDS deaths decreased from 123,000 in 2006 to 84,000 at the end of 2009, AIDS remains a leading cause of death in Zimbabwe. The dual epidemic of TB and HIV also continues to be a major factor in morbidity and mortality among PLHIV, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, undermining efforts to prevent and control HIV. In Zimbabwe it is estimated that approximately 80% of TB cases are co-infected with HIV. It is estimated that 25% of all children in Zimbabwe are orphaned due to AIDS.
The country has set a comprehensive treatment, care and support programme in order to mitigate the effects of the HIV and AIDS pandemic. The treatment, care and support programme focus on provision of comprehensive services that address the medical, social and emotional needs of PLHIV.
Reduce HIV related morbidity and mortality
Improve the survival of PLHIV
Improve the quality of life of PLHIV
Including diagnostic testing and counselling; client initiated counselling and testing (CICT) and provider initiated testing and counselling (PITC)
In health institutions, in the community and in the homes
For infected persons and their families
Of opportunistic infections and HIV-associated malignancies
Of TB/HIV co-infection
In HIV-infected persons
Comprehensive nutritional support services
Access to life-saving medication
And family planning services
For occupational exposure to HIV and victims of rape
Mitigating the impact through legal instruments against stigma and discrimination
Mitigating socio-economic and psychological impact on individuals, families and communities
For more information on the treatment, care and support programme refer to the documents below