In a nationally televised World AIDS Day address, South African President Jacob Zuma announced the expansion of antiretroviral (ARV) treatment for HIV-positive pregnant women, children, and those co-infected with TB. The country will now give HIV-infected pregnant women ARVs earlier in their pregnancy to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission, and infected infants will be eligible for earlier ARV therapy. The policy shift embraces treatment guidelines announced on Monday by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Rejecting the AIDS denialist views of his predecessor, Thabo Mbeki, Zuma framed the country's AIDS fight in terms of the historic struggle to end apartheid. "We have no choice but to deploy every effort, mobilize every resource, and utilize every skill our nation possesses," he said.

By April, HIV-positive patients who have TB will be able to access ARVs earlier, when their immune systems are stronger. TB is the leading cause of mortality for HIV-infected South Africans, and TB deaths have more than tripled since 1997. Earlier treatment will help reduce mortality among the co-infected, WHO said.

"What does all this mean?" Zuma asked. "It means that we will be treating significantly larger numbers of HIV-positive patients. It means that people will live longer and more fulfilling lives."

Zuma urged South Africans to learn their HIV status, and said that he would take another HIV test as well. He also stressed the need to "use condoms consistently and correctly during every sexual encounter."

"To families looking after sick relatives, we wish you strength," Zuma said. "We understand what you are going through. To those who have lost their loved ones to the epidemic, we share your pain and extend our deepest condolences."

In tandem, the US ambassador announced that the United States will give $120 million to South Africa to help it meet growing demand for ARVs. That sum is in addition to a $560 million US pledge to South Africa for fiscal 2010.