U.N. Says AIDS Epidemic Slows, Infections Dropping

The U.N. says the global AIDS epidemic has slowed and cited a drop in new HIV infections.

UNAIDS, the United Nations' AIDS agency, says there has been a nearly 20 percent decrease in new HIV infections over the past decade.

In South Africa, which has more people than any other country with the virus that causes AIDS, the report says new infections have reduced by more than 25 percent in the same time period.

Africa-based agency official Sheila Tlou says the drop in Africa is because of increased condom use, abstinence and improved awareness of AIDS.

But the report released Tuesday said there had been rises in infections in parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia.