Living with HIV in Post-Crisis Times

This edited collection of ethnographic research reports from 11 contributors around the globe makes the case that biomedical treatment to prolong life and reduce transmission of HIV has not solved the HIV/AIDS crisis. Murray includes case studies from Egypt, Uganda, India, Africa, Japan, Jamaica, and Canada that discuss numerous problems: lack of access to resources; drug shortages and limited distribution; treatment non-compliance; stigma and discrimination; dwindling financial support for fewer programs; staff shortages; inadequate follow-up; aging patients and long-term toxic drug side effects; increased alcohol use; girls and women as victims of sexual violence and/or abandonment/widowhood; food insecurity and need for nutritional counseling; and problems of poor migrant populations such as unstable housing, underemployment, and the like. Contributing authors also share information on some positive efforts and pilot programs: women-centered networks and "Mentor Moms" in Jamaica; Ugandan residential treatment and a school for children with advanced HIV infection who are eventually reintegrated into home communities; and a Canadian/West African EBOLA vaccine clinical trial conducted among HIV+ immunocompromised individuals. The chapters include extensive notes and references[.] Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates. Graduate students, faculty, and professionals.