themselves
9 November 2006
It is disturbing that Sowetan decided to publish unproven allegations that
there are people in the Eastern Cape who are buying blood with HIV, and infect
themselves with the aim of getting social grants. ('HIV+ blood for sale,'
Sowetan, 9 November 2006).
Publishing these rumours as statement of fact only serves to perpetuate
stereotypes against the poor. Currently, there is no grant that is available to
people by virtue of the fact that they are living with HIV. A temporary
disability grant becomes available only when a health professional has
certified that a person has been incapacitated as a result of a disease.
Trading in blood and payment of social grants to those who do not qualify
are crimes that should be reported and investigated accordingly. Those found to
be involved should be subjected to the appropriate criminal justice processes.
We cannot deny that there are many challenges facing the poor. Government is
responding to these challenges through various interventions within its social
security programme.
Enquiries:
Sibani Mngadi
Spokesperson for Dr Manto Tshabalala-Msimang
Cell: 082 772 0161
Issued by: Department of Health
9 November 2006
Source: Department of Health (http://www.doh.gov.za)
