World AIDS Day is celebrated on 1st December every year since 1988. It’s an international day to raise awareness of the HIV-AIDS pandemic and commemorate those who died.
World AIDS Day will be celebrated on 1st December, Friday this year.
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is commonly stigmatized and misunderstood. It lowers immunity, making people more prone to infections. HIV is spread by bodily fluids and can cause AIDS, which destroys the immune system.
Fortunately, antiretroviral therapy controls and prevents HIV. Antiretrovirals slow virus replication, helping the immune system recover and avoid further damage. Early detection is key to fighting HIV. Regular testing, especially for high-risk populations, pregnant women, and those having unprotected sex, can limit transmission and slow virus spread.
Dr. Krutharth Kanjiya, a fever and critical infection specialist, says HIV prevention requires awareness. Targeted programs in schools, communities, and internet platforms can promote HIV testing and treatment. HIV myths and stigma must be dispelled, frank discussions encouraged, and testing made routine in healthcare.
Community engagement is key to HIV interventions. Support groups and resources empower HIV-positive people and foster peer-to-peer education. “Prevention being better than cure,” these efforts establish an informed, supportive, and proactive HIV/AIDS society.
Raising awareness also reduces HIV stigma, which hinders individuals from testing and getting treatment. It encourages HIV-positive patients to seek medical care by fostering understanding and acceptance.
Conclusion
HIV affects the immune system, rendering people more susceptible to infections. Untreated, it can lead to AIDS through bodily fluid contact. ART prevents and manages HIV by stopping virus replication and restoring the immune system. Routine testing, especially for high-risk populations, pregnant women, and unprotected sex, can limit transmission and slow virus growth. HIV awareness initiatives in schools, communities, and internet platforms emphasize testing and treatment. HIV projects need community engagement to empower and embrace HIV-positive people.
