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Cuba was recently recognized by the World Health Organisation for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of the HIV virus, and other Caribbean countries are hoping to follow suit, pledging to completely eradicate AIDS by 2030.
According to the latest statistics on HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean, in 2013, 25,000 adults and children were estimated to be living with the disease and 12,000 new infections were projected for that year. Those figures were published by the Caribbean Public Health Agency.
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Health officials say the 2030 target is an ambitious challenge, but that it is attainable.
Many Caribbean islands boast robust systems for helping those who have been diagnosed with the virus, through the ant-retroviral treatment and in doing so, they are helping to prevent its spread.
“We have also been able to provide social support and interventions for persons who are unable to provide the required diets,” said Natasha Lloyd-Felix, head of Saint Lucia’s Bureau of Health Education, adding that they also provide support for persons whose children may have been orphaned as a result of losing parents to AIDS.
“This has seen significant gains for us because it means by providing this level of support we can reduce their own vulnerabilities and reduce their likelihood of also becoming diagnosed or being open to opportunities for being affected,” said Lloyd-Felix.
Caribbean nationals have their own opinions on the 2030 challenge.
Lawyer Mary Francis told teleSUR that achieving the goal will depend on the people’s willingness to change their behavior.
“Well, it’s a question of behavior and people have to take it seriously. They have to realize it’s a question of behavior. Well you know, why is it (infection) highest in Africa and the Caribbean? That should tell a story. The statistics should tell a story,” she said.
Young people like Shanna Joseph say why not?
“In 15 years? No I don’t believe, but nothing beats a try. You have to set an ambitious goal and then work towards it,” she said.
Health officials in the Caribbean say AIDS can be eliminated and the vision of an AIDS-free Caribbean and the goal to halt the spread and reduce the impact of HIV is within grasp.
They insist education continues to be a powerful tool in fighting the epidemic and they are hoping to see the behavioral change associated with learning over time.
WATCH: Cuba Becomes 1st Country to Eliminate HIV Mother-Child Transmission
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