Books on HIV/AIDS available for free

Books on HIV/AIDS available for free

JAKARTA (JP): Several people infected with Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) have written a book on HIV/AIDS
(Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome), which is available for
free.

The book, called Sebuah Buku Kecil Tentang Hidup dengan
HIV/AIDS (A Little Book About Living with HIV/AIDS), was
published by the spiritia peer support group in cooperation with
British Women's Association and Canadian Women's Association.

It was dedicated with love, spirit and hope, for all people
with HIV/AIDS and their families and friends throughout
Indonesia.

"This little book was written by people, who also live with
HIV, to share their hope with you," the publisher writes in the
book's introduction.

The government has recorded 463 HIV/AIDS cases in Indonesia
and 66 of them have died. But the World Health Organization
estimates 50,000 Indonesians might be HIV positive. A University
of Indonesia research group recently said between 12,000 and
31,000 Indonesians are dying every because of AIDS.

The newly published book explains in a simple language what
really happens when one gets HIV. "Testing positive to HIV does
not necessarily mean that we are sick, suffering from AIDS or
dying. Some people can live with HIV in their body for ten years
or even more," it says.

The 26-page book gives basic information about the drugs,
treatment, therapy and the responsibilities of people who have
the virus. The readers can also learn how the virus is
transmitted and how to avoid it, for example, by practicing safe
sex.

Anyone interested in the book can contact spiritia, P.O. Box
151 CNR, Jakarta 16514, Tel/Fax. 766-9233, 846-1247, e-mail:
spiritia@rad.net.id. (sim)