What is World AIDS Day?
World AIDS Day is held on Dec. 1 each year and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died. World AIDS Day was the first global health day and the first one was held in 1988.
Why is World AIDS Day important?
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1,144,500 persons aged 13 years and older in the United States are living with HIV infection, including 180,900 who are unaware of their infection. Globally an estimated 34 million people have HIV. Over the past decade, the number of people living with HIV has increased, while the annual number of new HIV infections has remained relatively stable. More than 35 million people have died from the virus, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.
Today, many scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment, there are laws to protect people living with HIV and we understand so much more about the condition. But despite this, people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others from HIV, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with HIV. World AIDS Day is important as it reminds the public and Government that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.
What should I do on World AIDS Day?
World AIDS Day is an opportunity for you to learn the facts about HIV and put your knowledge into action. If you understand how HIV is transmitted, how it can be prevented, and the reality of living with HIV today – you can use this knowledge to take care of your own health and the health of others, and ensure you treat everyone living with HIV fairly, and with respect and understanding. Go to http://www.worldaidsday.org/about-hiv.php to learn the facts about HIV. You can also show your support for people living with HIV on World AIDS Day by wearing a red ribbon, the international symbol of HIV awareness and support.
Get Tested at Richland Public Health
“One out of three that are infected with HIV are not aware of their status,” said Tina Nichols, AIDS Educator at Richland Public Health. “Get tested. We can help you understand your results and keep it at negative.” HIV testing at Richland Public Health is by appointment during regular business hours. An oral test (cotton swab inside the mouth) can be done. There is no charge for an HIV test. If your test is positive, case management is available to assist you.
For more information, call the Richland Public Health Clinic: 419-774-4700.
