“Uniting Science and Community” in HIV Push

Health leaders in Belize are calling for faster, more coordinated action to tackle HIV in today’s landmark regional symposium. Scientists, policymakers, and community groups came together for the International AIDS Society (IAS) Educational Fund symposium in Belize City to address and close the gaps in the national response.

“This IAS symposium is the first of its kind in Belize and also the first of its kind in Central America, which makes it a really big deal,” said Dr Joshua Canul, Assistant Deputy Director for HIV/TB & STIs at the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

He said today’s meeting looked at both progress and persistent challenges, stating that although government funds about 80% of the HIV response, “There’s a lag in response to the HIV epidemic.”

Under the theme “Uniting science and community for an accelerated HIV response in Belize”, the symposium was meant to connect the wider community and involve those beyond health professionals to include teachers, religious leaders and other sectors.

The expanded community involvement is part of how officials are working towards reaching the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. Executive Director of GOJoven Belize, Eva Burgos, framed IAS as a “reservoir for innovative ideas as it pertains to the response of HIV”, adding that as a country, Belize must look at “new strategies and innovative ways of doing prevention as it pertains to HIV”.

Officials say today’s discussions are expected to feed into ongoing national efforts to close treatment gaps and improve prevention outcomes as Belize works towards meeting its UNAIDS commitments.