Anti-Aids seaweed vaginal gel tested in SA

[bemildred]

Yeah, I know, "Which country in South Africa?"

South Africa is at the crest of a wave of international studies to test the safety and efficacy of a seaweed-based microbicide, which once inserted into a woman's vagina could help prevent the spread of Aids.

The study is particularly important in societies where women have difficulty persuading partners to use condoms.

The final phase three testing of the Carraguard gel is currently underway at Soshanguve in Pretoria, Isipingo in KwaZulu-Natal and Gugulethu in Cape Town.

IOL

[bush_is_wacko]

1. Success rate!

They are only expecting a 3.5 percent HIV conversion rate? I lost 3 family members to AIDS. (all blood transfusions) I have to admit, I wouldn't take a chance with even 3.5%, but this certainly shows some promise. It's horrible how many children are wandering that country without parents.

[Fovea]

2. As I said when I was working in the ER

and AIDS started rising in numbers...
'AIDS is God's revenge on hemophiliacs.'
We lost a whole family to it in the late 80s.

[Mackenzie]

3. Seaweed? Yuck! Why couldn't it have been chocolate?

Oh well.

Maybe next time!