Pretoria - As countries across the world commemorate World Aids Day today, the South African Medical Association (SAMA) has called on the public to get tested for HIV.
"We call on the public to continue to be tested and influence others to test for HIV as a routine way of ensuring healthy lifestyle choices, irrespective of status, as HIV and Aids does not discriminate," said SAMA Chairperson Dr Norman Mabasa.
In April, President Jacob Zuma launched an HIV, Counselling and Testing campaign, which aims to get 15 million people tested by June 2011.
To date, 4.9 million people have reported for counseling in the country's health facilities. This year's World Aids Day will campaign will continue until next year June as government aims to reach that target.
SAMA has also urged all doctors to reaffirm their important role in addressing the epidemic through encouraging all patients to test and be treated if necessary and provide ongoing education about the importance of being adherent to treatment as well as safe sexual practices.
"Collective responsibility will reduce the spread of HIV," he noted.
Themed "We Are Responsible", the 2010 World Aids Day campaign is directed at the nation to demonstrate collective responsibility to influence and support partners, family and community members to voluntary test for HIV and set an example by leading healthier lifestyles.
Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe together with Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and Mpumalanga Premier David Mabuza will today participate in a dialogue with Driefontein community on how to reduce the scourge of HIV.
Cabinet ministers as well as MECs will also participate in social dialogues around the country on how to reduce new HIV infections.
