MSF Criticizes Failure to Control TB, HIV Epidemics

Despite public commitments by governments and international organizations to tackle the so-called dual epidemic of tuberculosis (TB) and HIV, there is little evidence of progress, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). The group works in many of the countries most hit by these two diseases, including many countries in Africa.

The group published a report, "TB and HIV: The Failure to Act," to mark World TB Day this past weekend. The report warns that the established treatment systems fail patients because TB and HIV are largely considered separately. Often only one of the illnesses is diagnosed and treated.

The report recommends that the TB treatment system must be adapted to cope with the effects of the HIV epidemic, and that international organizations increase support for the development of TB and HIV vaccines.

"MSF's experience on the ground has shown that, despite serious challenges, it is possible to combat the dual epidemics even in the most difficult settings, through using innovative ways of finding, diagnosing and treating patients," MSF General Director Geoff Prescott said.

MSF, which runs TB projects in 44 countries and HIV/AIDS projects in 33 countries, says that the integration of TB and HIV care is its priority.