AIDS HELPLINE TO BE LAUNCHED

Issued by: Department of Health

25 July 2001

Frightened of AIDS and desperate for help?

Whatever you need to know, there is one free number to call:
0800-012-322

Minister of Health, Dr. Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, will launch South Africa's modernised national AIDS HELPLINE on 30 July 2001. The lifeline offers toll-free help 24 hours a day by specially trained counsellors using state-of-the art telecommunications equipment.

The catastrophic spread of HIV/AIDS, stigmas and misconceptions about the epidemic prompted the need to expand the national AIDS HELPLINE so more calls could be taken without delay.

Date: 30 July 2001
Venue: 10th Floor North City House; Braamfontein
Time: 10:30am for 11:00am

For further information contact: Sputnik Ratau at 083 253 5264