01/12/2024
Today, December 1, 2024, marks World AIDS Day, a day to unite in the fight against HIV, remember those who have lost their lives, and honor the 39.9 million people worldwide living with HIV. The theme for this year's World AIDS Day is "Take the Right Path: My Health, My Right!" which emphasizes the importance of protecting human rights in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
What is HIV and AIDS?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, while AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) occurs at the most advanced stage of HIV infection. HIV is spread through bodily fluids, such as blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids, and can be prevented through safe s*x practices, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
PREVENTION AND TREATMENT
HIV can be prevented through safe s*x practices, PrEP, and PEP. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the treatment for HIV, which stops the virus from replicating in the body. ART is not a cure, but it allows people living with HIV to lead long and healthy lives.
CHALLENGES AND CALL TO ACTION
Despite progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, there are still significant challenges, including stigma and discrimination, inadequate funding, and unequal access to prevention and treatment services. This World AIDS Day, we call on governments, communities, and individuals to take action to address these challenges and ensure that everyone has access to quality HIV prevention, treatment, and care services.