China Could End HIV/AIDS Entry Ban Before 2010 Expo – Last Monday, China’s Cabinet announced that it would make amendments to laws prohibiting HIV-positive individuals from entering the country. Current laws also prevent foreigners with mental disorders or infectious diseases to enter. Changes to the rules on long-term stay, residence, and immigration of HIV-positive individuals will likely be announced prior to the commencement of the Shanghai Expo on May 1. China is one of over sixty countries that refuses entry based on HIV-status. For more information, please see the Asia News Network and RIA Novosti articles.

Mylan Gets Approval For Generic Version Of Videx EC HIV Treatment – Early last week, Mylan Inc. announced that it had received approval from the United States Food and Drug Agency for its generic version of Videx EC (didanosine). Videx EC, manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibbs, is an anti-HIV drug that stalls replication of the HIV virus when taken in combination with at least two other drugs. Approval was obtained under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. Mylan Pharmaceuticals plans to start marketing the drug in the U.S. in the current quarter. For more information, please see the Mylan website.

Fall And Spring Cruises For HIV-Positive Gay Men – Carnival Cruise lines will run cruises from May 2 to May 9 and October 23 to October 31 for gay HIV-positive men. The cruises, which travel throughout the Caribbean and Mexico, include social events, games, informative lectures, spiritual workshops, and Q&A sessions with HIV experts. Participants may go on both cruises, and eligibility is unaffected by age, disease stage, or previous experience on a cruise ship. A portion of the proceeds are donated to HIV organizations and charities. For more information, please see the Gay Men’s HIV Retreat website.

For a more detailed listing of HIV/AIDS related events, please check the AIDS Beacon Events Calendar.