Friday 1 December is #WorldAIDSDay – a global campaign by the National AIDS Trust, which has been recognised on 1st December every year since 1988. Its aim is to support those living with HIV, remember those who have lost their lives to AIDS-related illness, secure the rights of people living with the condition and continue the fight to end the stigma surrounding HIV.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus which attacks the immune system – the body’s defence against diseases. HIV stays in the body for life, but treatment can keep the virus under control and the immune system healthy. Without medication people with HIV can develop AIDS.
World AIDS Day is the perfect time for us to raise much needed awareness about HIV. So, what can you do?
- Get a test – did you know you can order a free STI testing kit, including HIV test online: https://www.sexualhealth.cnwl.nhs.uk/order-form/
- Knowledge is power, read more about how HIV is and isn’t transmitted here: Transmission & prevention | aidsmap Also take a look at ‘Can’t Pass It On’ campaign (from someone living with HIV and on effective treatment can’t pass it on) https://www.tht.org.uk/our-work/our-campaigns/cant-pass-it-on
- Rock the Ribbon: Read more about the Worlds AIDS Day 2023 campaign here: https://www.worldaidsday.org/
We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to end the HIV epidemic for good, but we must also continue fighting the stigma still experienced by people living with HIV.
Surrey County Council are also holding a HIV and Stigma Webinar, on Wednesday 13 December, 1 – 2pm, to update your knowledge on HIV, hear experience from people living with HIV and find out how you can contribute towards the Surrey HIV Action Plan and help to fight stigma in Surrey. This event is open to all and we encourage clinicians and non-clinicians to attend. To book your place click here.