MSI Microbicides Monitor: 25-31 August 2009

MSI Microbicides Monitor: 25-31 August 2009
Issue 3
Monday, 31 August 2009
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The MSI Microbicides Monitor provides a weekly snapshot of major news pieces on microbicides research, advocacy and development from around the world, including news highlights from countries where clinical trials are taking place, and links to major microbicides-related events or other advocacy opportunities. This is issue 3 (25-31 August 2009):
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The battle in Uganda over female condoms
On the surface, it seems like a fine idea; reproductive rights groups certainly think so. In July, the Ugandan government announced that, using cash from the U.N. Population Fund, it would distribute 100,000 female condoms in a bid to stop a resurgence of HIV/AIDS. Advocates cheered the initiative, saying it would give women more control over their own bodies. But in the weeks since, major funders of anti-HIV/AIDS programs have shown far less enthusiasm, with many deciding not to back the plan. Instead of serving as a surefire weapon against the spread of HIV, Uganda's female condoms initiative has become the latest example of the limitations faced by governments, advocacy groups and donors in the fight against the virus. Read more

Commercial sex workers recycle condoms in Kasama
SOME commercial sex workers in Kasama are repeatedly using one condom with different sexual partners. This is according to a latest survey conducted by the Network of Zambian People Living with HIV and AIDS (NZP+), Kasama chapter in different nightclubs and drinking places. In an interview, NZP+ district board chairperson Joseph Chitupa said it was worrying to see sex workers not following the stipulated instructions on the usage of female condoms. Chitupa said the sex workers' action to use one condom with different partners was risking their clients as they may contract Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV. Read more

Six-African country Microbicides study will present results in November 2009
A microbicide study involving 11 000 women from six African countries will present its results in November, deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe told a South African National AIDS Council conference. "Positive results would add to the tools that women could use to protect themselves from HIV," Motlanthe said at the HIV prevention for women and girls summit in Kempton Park. "Many women, especially those who live in poor settings, do not have the ability or the knowledge to negotiate safer sex, this despite the fact that we have a Constitution that is deeply rooted in a human rights culture," he said. Read more
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Upcoming events related to Microbicides
Microbicides International Conference, 2010 - Building bridges in HIV Prevention, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA (22-25 May 2010)
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Produced and disseminated by Citizen News Service (CNS) for Microbicides Society of India (MSI)