Posts Tagged ‘International Symbol’

FORGOTTEN BUT NOT GONE

Initiated in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day.  World AIDS Day is held on the first day of December each year. The day 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.

WHY SHOULD WE CARE ABOUT IT?

More than 1.2 million people are currently living with HIV in the US and an estimated 33.3 million people have HIV globally. Two million new infections occur each year in the world; 25 million people between 1981 and 2007 have died from the virus, making it one of worse diseases in our history.

Many people are not aware of the facts about how to protect themselves and others from HIV. Stigma, shame and discrimination are real for many people living with HIV.  World AIDS Day is an important reminder to the Public and Government that HIV has not gone away. We still need to increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

HOW CAN I HELP?

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for you to learn about HIV, get tested 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 are better prepared to take care of your own health. People living with HIV should be treated with dignity and respect like everyone else. 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. The importance of raising awareness of HIV is critical all year round.

HIV FACTS

HIV stands for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus which attacks the body’s immune system — the body’s defense against diseases.

HIV can be passed on through infected bodily fluids, most commonly via sex without a condom or by sharing infected needles, syringes or other injecting drug equipment.

There are more than 1.2 million people living with HIV in the US, 1in 5 (20%) of those are unaware they have the virus with 50 thousand new infections each year. ^[1]

• You can get tested through a rapid test which only takes 15-20 minutes
• In NJ you can dial 1-800-624-2377 for testing
• HIV is a Chronic Disease and you can live a healthy productive life when treated
• Remember Stigma can kill because of shame and fear-Lets Break The Cycle

GET TESTED, GET EDUCATED and KNOW YOUR STATUS!