In the article “Death Stalks a Continent,” individuals with pseudonyms testify about their experiences with the sexually transmitted disease. Doctors and health professionals in Africa value reputation and social standing above personal health. Laetitia Hambahlane loses her job and is even rejected by her mother (McGeary, 2001). Her mother, who is more concerned with her financial position, is like African society regarding ignorance. According to the article, HIV/AIDS denial stems from the notion of sex. When it comes to testing for HIV, most infected men are unwilling to do so since they have the illness; thus, they think they may participate in sexual activity with others without fear of infection.
According to the article, prostitution contributes to the prevalence of sex in Africa. Truck driver Louis Chikoka often parks his truck for “quickies” and “short service.” Many women become prostitutes because they offer sex to get money to pay for their basic needs; as Chikoka states, “They give sex to eat” (McGeary, 2001). When their parents die, many children of HIV-positive parents are left orphaned. People are continuously seeking loans and saving money for their kids. Some women tend to be embarrassed by their morals, therefore, stating, “I am ashamed… At the present moment, I have no option, no other option” (McGeary 250. In that culture, these practices are seen as a norm, which is problematic.
This article may be unpleasant and upsetting, but it is vital to examine the continuously spreading illnesses. Despite its published article, HIV/AIDS is still a problem today, particularly in Atlanta, one of the country’s and perhaps the world’s most affected areas. I like the article since it is simple and presents the subject of the matter honestly. The fact that 70,000 HIV-positive infants are born yearly in South Africa alone bothers me greatly (McGeary, 2001). I am sad and worried for all the children and adults with AIDS due to others’ ignorance and carelessness.
With no holds barred, this article expresses its reality bluntly. I also feel bad for the parents, who have to sell their bodies or give short sexual services to make ends meet. I hold the government responsible for the lack of concern it has for its citizens. Another thing I liked about this article is that it highlighted the corruption of the rich and how the poor are often neglected. One phrase that stands out to me is when it says, “The wealthy world must help with its zeal and its cash if southern Africa is ever to be freed of the AIDS plague” (McGeary, 2001). I agree with this remark since every country in Africa, to be honest, can do better for its people.
First, I believe they should create better healthcare systems that truly fulfill patient requirements. Patients’ needs must take precedence above societal pressure and prestige. An alternative to exclusion is establishing assistance programs that help individuals afford services while caring for their children. I also believe that educational initiatives can educate the young on sexuality and STDs, as education is the only remedy for ignorance. I also agree with another statement that the solution for this disease is not national but international. The article conveys that it will require global cooperation to combat illnesses that may severely harm our young.
In conclusion, this article hits important areas to convey the idea of taking things more seriously, particularly health concerns, as we cannot disregard these issues. No issue should be ignored regarding an individual’s or their family’s health. There is no way to solve this issue if we do not even admit it exists. It is time to wake up and learn about the risks of ignorance and complacency from those we love.
Reference
McGeary, J. (2001). Death Stalks a Continent. Time, 157(6), 36-44.