HEALTH Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy has revealed that Corriverton, East Berbice has a very high percentage of HIV/AIDS cases.

Dr. Ramsammy made the disclosure on Saturday at the launching of the National AIDS Campaign in Corriverton. He said approximately 20,000 Guyanese have already contracted the deadly virus, and he called on the community to unite and work collectively to reverse the social ills.

The Minister expressed alarm over the increasing rate of those cases in Corriverton, and outlined his Ministry's plans to deal with the epidemic. He said anti-retroviral pills will be available locally for patients, and more doctors are now trained to administer the drug.

He noted that Government has embarked on a programme to this effect.

President of the Cry of AIDS Project, Pastor Mursalin Alim also expressed disappointment over the rise in AIDS cases in the Upper Corentyne town and he pledged to cooperate with other organisations to combat the scourge.

The rally, held under the theme `I care, do you', was organised by Dr. Jhadunauth Rhagunauth, Government Medical Officer (GMO), Skeldon Hospital and supported by several religious organisations, the public and private sectors and youth groups, among others. (Arjune Poonai)