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WHO: Indonesian HIV Population is One of Asia's Fastest Growing


The World Health Organization (WHO) says Indonesia has one of the fastest growing HIV epidemics in Asia.

The U.N. body published a report Saturday saying drug users and sex workers account for most of the spread of the virus that causes AIDS.

The report says HIV has become a particular concern in the remote eastern province of Papua, where infection rates are more than 20 times the national average. Health authorities say about two percent of Papua's population is infected with HIV.

U.N. officials say Indonesia's underdeveloped health care system and lack of resources make it difficult for the country to deal with HIV and AIDS.

About 7,000 AIDS cases have been reported in Indonesia, although the real figure is believed to be much higher.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and Reuters.

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