Almost no one outside a small circle of doctors and a support group knows who has HIV or AIDS in the territory. The reason is simple: "Stigma and discrimination is a major problem throughout the world but especially in small countries like the BVI," said Dr. Ronald McAnaney, the National Aids Programme director.

The Beacon requested an interview with patients infected with the virus to be featured anonymously during AIDS Day on Dec. 1, but Dr. McAnaney said all of them declined, fearing discrimination by the community. "People are afraid to be identified. Just think about it. … In small communities people tend to gossip, but especially with HIV that has a history of being identified with homosexuality, prostitution and drug abuse," he said.
HIV, which causes AIDS, attacks the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to life-threatening infections and cancers.

The first HIV case in the territory was reported in 1985. Today, 58 people here are known to be infected with HIV, according to NAP estimates, but the actual number could be much higher.

The Caribbean Epidemiology Centre (CAREC) estimates that the national prevalence rate of infection is 1.5 percent. With a population of about 26,000, according to the 2003 census estimates, more than 400 persons could be infected.

In the territory, NAP, within the Ministry of Health, develops programmes and services focused on sexual health and HIV education and treatment. But the lack of funding and human resources are a setback. And while the NAP is understaffed, the people’s perception of AIDS has improved, according to the physician, who said that people are now more understanding when it comes to HIV.

"There’s been a movement that has enabled people to understand that … the disease [can be] transmitted sexually but it doesn’t mean [sexual intercourse] is wrong. It’s part of life. All it takes is protection," Dr. McAnaney said, adding that the attitude toward the virus has improved through seminars held at the HLS Community College, at the Elmore Stoutt High School and at community organisations.

One of these workshops was held yesterday and brought more than 30 doctors, social workers, dentists, and counselors together to talk about new approaches for counseling and testing for HIV.

The BVI Beacon