Global news January 2011

Abstract

A new guideline on integrating water, sanitation and hygiene into HIV/AIDS programmes, is now available from the World Health Organisation and USAID. The publication is aimed at facili­ tating the integration of WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene practices) into official HIV guidelines and standards, and into HIV programming. Among others, the guide outlines why WASH should be included in HIV programmes; details which WASH practices to include; and identifies how WASH can be included in HIV programmes, illus­ trated by case studies from various pro ­ grammes. The document also provides concrete recommendations for country programmes and those implementing them on how to integrate WASH into HIV policies and programmes. The priority actions to integrate into national HIV programmes are to treat drinking water, store treated drinking water safely, promote hand washing, handle and dispose of faeces safely, manage menstruation, prepare, handle and store food safely and promote per­ sonal cleanliness, especially of people living with HIV/AIDS.

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