Pray HIV week 3: Green CrossAndy Freeman - 15 Nov 2011

If you need to find a pharmacy in Europe, look for a green cross.  This symbol shows that somewhere is open to buy medicines that you need.  It’s so easy, people can take it for granted.

Whether it’s a green cross or another symbol, these signs highlight a big problem - the availability of medicine.

When it comes to the HIV virus, Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs are.  These drugs aren’t a cure, but can substantially prolong the life of someone with HIV.  They work simply, blocking the virus’s attempts to implant onto cells and create infection. 

It seems like a simple idea.  But the World Heath Organisation estimate that at least 14.6 million people were in need of antiretroviral therapy in 2009. As of the end of 2009, 5.25 million people had access to antiretroviral therapy in low- and middle-income countries.

Money and availability of drugs is a massive issue in HIV.  Once again where you live and what money you have dictates so much.

As you pray for HIV this week pray for changes in the availability of drugs.  Each time you see a Green Cross or a Pharmacy sign, pray.  Pray for people who need ARV treatment.  Pray for scientists who work at further treatments for HIV.  Maybe even dare to pray for a cure ...

The second part of our free PrayHIV guide to help us pray through the month of November is available for download now.