Mandela Urges Young People To Avoid HIV Infection by Delaying Onset of Sexual Activity, Using Condoms
Former South African President Nelson Mandela on Monday urged young people to avoid HIV infection by delaying the onset of sexual activity and using condoms once sexually active, London's Guardian reports (Meldrum, Guardian, 7/12). "AIDS has spread because people have so many partners. People should use condoms and try to resist being with a partner until about 18 or 19 years old," Mandela said at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg, South Africa. He added, "People should in fact delay having sex until they are about 21 years old and then use contraceptives when they do" (SAPA/News24.com, 7/11). Mandela also announced four new ambassadors to his 46664 HIV/AIDS awareness campaign. The new ambassadors include South African actress Kim Engelbrecht, radio presenter Leanne Manas, and musicians Vusi Mahlasela and Dozi (Associated Press, 7/11).
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