UNICEF: Fighting pediatric AIDS in Côte dIvoire

BOUAKE, Côte dIvoire, 2 January 2008 12-year-old Emily lives a fragile existence. AIDS took the lives of both her parents and she herself is living with HIV. An estimated 74,000 children age 14 and under are living with HIV in the country.

Despite this, Emily is one of the lucky ones every few days she sets off alone for the Centre de Solidarité Action Sociale (SAS) in central Bouake. Here she is examined by doctors who specialize in paediatric AIDS. These regular visits allow them to track her progress.

The reason I like going there is because they give you medication, they take care of you and you can go there again and again, said Emily.

Since 1999, UNICEF has worked with SAS to provide support to those affected by AIDS in Bouake and the surrounding areas. Testing is offered, as is medical care and counselling. Thousands of children have been assisted by the centre and over 800 orphans and vulnerable children currently receive social and educational support.

To read the full story, visit: http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/cotedivoire_46993.html