HIV/AIDS and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene: Thematic Overview Paper

Source:
Kamminga E, Wegelin-Schuringa M. 2005 . Delft, IRC International Water and Sanitation Centre

Summary:
HIV is not spread via contaminated water or poor hygiene. But a Thematic Overview Paper (TOP) on HIV/AIDS and the intersection with the water, sanitation and hygiene (WSH) sector is needed to address the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on WSH service providers; the changing demands for WSH services brought about by the effects of HIV/AIDS on households and communities, and reasons improved WSH services have a crucial role to play in slowing the progression of HIV/ AIDS. The topic is relevant not only for regions highly affected by the epidemic (mainly in Africa), but also for those with rapidly increasing infection rates, such as Asia and Eastern Europe. Topics addressed include effect on sanitation organizations and service provision, and lessons learned in preventing and mitigating the effects of HIV/AIDS from outside and inside the water and sanitation sector.