The Republic of Moldova remains vulnerable to HIV, Michel Kazatchkine, Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General for HIV/AIDS in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, said in a news conference in Chisinau on April 28. The official has paid a three-day working visit to Chisinau, IPN reports.

Michel Kazatchkine said the number of HIV cases in the Republic of Moldova does not decline owing to the excessive use of injecting drugs among the population. During his visit, the UN official ascertained that progress was made in fulfilling the commitments undertaken by the authorities. There were worked out different HIV combating programs, but these efforts are not enough.

“Greater financing is needed as well as support for NGOs that would assist the HIV-infected persons. Moldovan society is not sufficiently tolerant. Owing to this, the HIV-infected persons refuse to have tests, receive treatment and be supervised,” stated Michel Kazatchkine.

According to official statistics, over 11,000 cases of HIV have been recorded in Moldova. Annually, about 300 persons die from AIDS and illnesses associated with this. At the beginning of this year, 4,500 persons received antiretroviral therapy.

The United Nations Development Program on April 28 announced that it delivered its first batch of medicines based on an agreement with the Ministry of Health. The first batch represents USD 328 thousand and will benefit 3,800 people.