The New Zealand AIDS Foundation says a recent message from the Pope denouncing condom use is "dangerous" and could have devastating effects within communities with high HIV risk, including gay men. Dangerous views: The Pope Beginning his current visit to Africa, Pope Benedict XVI commented that condoms can endanger public health and increase the problem of HIV and AIDS. A fresh statement from the NZAF shows it strongly disagrees with this view, and supports the many contrary views by human rights advocates, political leaders and epidemiologists across the world. Executive Director of the NZAF Rachael Le Mesurier says, "This statement is dangerous and could have devastating effects within African Communities and other communities with high HIV risk. Using condoms and lube every time remains the most effective way to prevent HIV transmission." The NZAF says its strong commitment to the African Communities in New Zealand includes providing a targeted HIV prevention programme for African Communities since 2006, which has included the training of over 140 Community Educators nationally. "The continued promotion of condoms and lube is essential to stop the global HIV epidemic, and remains the most effective strategy in fighting the disease," says the Foundation. "Public comment against condom use is dangerous and likely to lead to increased and undesirable HIV transmissions."
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News Staff
First published: Saturday, 21st March 2009 - 11:14am