The progress we’ve made in the HIV epidemic
HIV is an epidemic that has seen many years of struggle. We have lost nearly 32 million people to HIV related ailments over the years. We’ve made progress in the treatment, but the illness still persists as a serious health challenge.
Fortunately, now ending the epidemic is within our reach.
We have made tremendous strides
Around 38 million people are living with HIV. We still don’t have a cure. But biomedical and scientific research advances have led to the development of HIV tests, many successful HIV treatments, prevention strategies, and improved care for persons with HIV.
Now people who are regular with their medication can live long and healthy lives and even have effectively no risk of transmitting the illness.
In addition, prevention tools that include pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP, post-exposure prophylaxis or PEP, and syringe services programs make an individual’s risk of acquiring HIV significantly lower when they have access to those tools.
AIDS Vaccine Day
This day is celebrated each year to raise awareness about the importance of HIV vaccinations in preventing HIV infection and AIDS.
The day highlights the necessity for preventive HIV vaccine research. It is also dedicated to the heroes who work relentlessly- volunteers, community members, health professionals, and scientists working together to find a safe and effective preventive HIV vaccine.
How it came to be
In 1997 Bill Clinton had emphasized in his speech that only a really effective and preventive HIV vaccine can contain and eradicate the fatal disease. He said that, “only a truly effective, preventive HIV vaccine can limit and eventually eliminate the threat of AIDS.”
He appealed to he world to develop an effective vaccine with effective use of science and technology.
What can you do?
Educate yourself. That is the first step
There is so much misconception around AIDS. Children who have HIV are shunned at schools. Families ignore and mistreat other members who have HIV. A couple of years ago we had the opportunity to visit an NGO that works towards the welfare of people suffering from HIV.
Budhwar Peth in the heart of Pune city houses India’s third largest red-light district which supposedly has at least 700 brothels. During a time when there was hardly any awareness of the HIV virus or free treatment available, a journey called Manavya. Read more about our visit here.
“I’m a firm believer that education is the most efficient tool we have to make people aware and make our children aware and to protect them from the scourge of the century, which is Aids.”
– Shakira.
Spread awareness
When we have enough knowledge we also have the ability to educate others and spread awareness. We have always stressed upon the power of community on an online platform like CauseAChatter.
Volunteer in any way you can
It could be going physically to places like the one we mentioned, volunteering in ways suitable for them, donating as much as you can, and so much more. Sharing our talent and skills with the world is one of the best ways to be helpful!
Do you know of a place that supports people with HIV? Share with us tagging @bestorified on Twitter. Today might be a good day to learn something new. Maybe with the help of a healthcare professional, you can take the first step towards awareness.
Or, do you have something to share? If you want to write for BeStorified, read the submission guidelines.
