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SOUTH AFRICA: Negative AIDS impact predicted for business

[This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]

JOHANNESBURG, 6 August (PLUSNEWS) - At least 80 percent of South Africans still do not know their HIV status, the University of South Africa's (UNISA) Bureau of Market Research has suggested.

Speaking at a recent Chamber of Commerce and Industry conference in Gauteng province on HIV/AIDS risk and business, head of the bureau Carel van Aardt warned of the negative impact of the disease on business in the coming year.

According to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Van Aardt predicts the effects could be felt across the business spectrum from 2005 onward as many HIV-positive workers enter the advanced stages of AIDS.

He urged stronger involvement by business and said the duty to inform and educate people about HIV/AIDS and encourage voluntary testing should not be left to government alone.

[ENDS]

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