VietNamNet Bridge – To accelerate the programme to change behaviour and increase intervention to reduce harmful affect for high risk groups is a good way to face the complicated development of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Deputy Health Minister Trinh Quan Huan suggested.

By August 30, HIV carriers in 13 key provinces numbered 75,872 with 18,927 with full blown AIDS, accounting for 55 percent of the whole country’s figure, it was reported at a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Truong Vinh Trong.

A pilot programme for drug detoxification using Methadone is being implemented in Hai Phong and Ho Chi Minh cities, benefiting 276 and 179 drug abusers, respectively.

However, the Ministry of Public Security admitted that the smuggling of drug has been complicated with limited capacity of controlling border areas. Meanwhile, the number of drug users strongly increases among young people.

At the governmental meeting opened in the northern port city of Hai Phong on Oct. 6, representatives from Dien Bien, Quang Ninh, Nghe An, Hai Phong, Thai Nguyen, Lai Chau, Bac Kan, Cao Bang, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City discussed measures to increase the efficiency of HIV/AIDS and drug prevention activities in hot-spots.

The meeting will come to an end on Oct. 7.

(Source: VNA)