According to a report by the Chicago Tribune, HIV-positive Zimbabweans are having limited access to antiretroviral drugs,
A Summary Report by Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune
According to a report by the Chicago Tribune, HIV-positive Zimbabweans are having limited access to antiretroviral drugs, owing to rising prices, dearth of foreign exchange to import drugs and President Robert Mugabe's drive on Urban Evictions. A report by the United Nations states that, hyperinflation in the last quarter has resulted in increased costs – for example a month’s supply of antiretrovirals in Zimbabwe that earlier costed $7.70 has escalated to $17. Simply unimaginable in Zimbabwe, where the average earning of a laborer is the equivalent of 20$a month.The Los Angeles Times has named it, Zimbabwe's "economic collapse," where hyperinflation and unemployment are riding high. Along with this comes acute dearth of antiretrovirals and lifeline medications. Zimbabwean health officials are of the opinion that Zimbabwe’s lack of foreign exchange has caused a shortage of antiretrovirals, as the local manufacturers are not able to adequately import drug components. The past few years, in Zimbabwe, have been a witness to widespread political and economic disorder, resulting in decreased international donor finding. The Times report states that Doctors are extremely guarded about starting any antiretroviral initiatives until they are rest assured that such efforts will be backed up.
