This measure is contained in an information note on New Directions in the framework of the strategy against HIV/AIDS in Cameroon, released by the Government on 22 June 2016 (document attached) . With the aim of improving the care of people living with HIV (PLHIV), new guidelines have just been taken, through circular letters and decisions. This act, among other things “the Decision on systematic testing of any person on consultation in a health facility” of the country, said the note from the Minister of Public Health, Andre Mama Fouda.
This decision, like others in this Circular, are part of the implementation of Antiretroviral Therapy Acceleration Plan and is in line with major international guidelines on HIV, including the new World Organization guidelines of Health and purpose “90-90-90” UNAIDS (United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS). It aims to “systematically track anyone who comes to a health facility, regardless of the reason for the consultation”.
BaretaNews Statement
Cameroonians are always edgy that each time a government has the authority to mandate policy or law without the will of the people. It’s a good thing for the right reasons but a dangerous precedence. Why would Cameroonians be forced to take a medical test against their wish? If the government can mandate this, can they also mandate women mutilation? Can they also mandate child birth restrictions per family? Wealth redistribution? Prison sentence, polygamy or monogamy? etc where do we draw the line? Good policy. ..Unacceptable procedure! ! Cameroon Obosso….Njukang Asong.
God is still saying something.
