UN official warns youth about Aids

Muscat: A top UN official has urged the younger generation in the GCC region to be careful of the perils of sexually-transmitted diseases, especially Aids.

"At a time when youngsters indulge in high risk practices, it is necessary to equip them with information, knowledge and education about HIV/Aids," Dr Nora N. Alnahedh, Resident Representative [for the GCC region] of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), told Gulf News in an interview.

There are many factors for the spread of the HIV virus and young nationals of the region should be made aware of these, she said. Among the various ways for the spread of HIV are blood transfusions, use of the same needle by drug addicts or unprotected sex with a carrier.

Dr Nora said that there is a commitment from the government but society at large should show transparency in tackling the issue. "It is important that we have services to care for those who are already suffering either from the HIV virus or full blown Aids," she said.

Abstinence

Prevention, the centrepiece of UNFPA's fight against HIV/Aids includes emphasis on abstinence outside marriage and fidelity within it. "Prevention also relies on promoting safer sexual behaviour among young people."

She said that HIV/Aids was still a taboo subject in the region therefore, "We [society] should be more involved in tackling the issue." She pointed out that it was necessary to arm the large number of adolescents with knowledge about HIV/Aids and ways through which it can spread.

"We at UNFPA ensure that adolescents have accurate information and non-judgemental counselling." She also said that UNFPA helps young people get involved in programmes that provide them with life skills.