GETTING TO ZERO: World Aids Day Celebration

Worlds AIDS Day is being commemorated every 1st of December and is dedicated to increase the public awareness about HIV& AIDS.During this time of the year, javascript:void(0)you'll see advocates wearing a "red ribbon", an international symbol of solidarity with people who are infected by HIV and those who are living with AIDS.The first World AIDS Day was celebrated in 1988. This year is the 23rd anniversary of the World Aids Celebration and the theme is "Getting to Zero": Zero New HIV Infections. Zero Discrimination, and Zero AIDS Related Deaths.

Different Non-Government Organizations and Local Government Units are holding different events like Candle Lighting Ceremonies, seminars, symposiums, and in the Philippines, the annual Manila Pride March is an avenue as well for the HIV Awareness campaigns and Human Rights Activism. Despite the efforts of our NGOs and LGUs, there is still an increase in the number of people getting infected every year in the Philippines but a decline can be observed in other countries.

Majority of the people living with HIV were infected through sexual contact, some through needle sharing among injecting drug users, and blood transfusion. Reports also have it that there are cases of people below 15 years old. This year, the theme aims to lessen, or better yet, reduce all HIV infection to zero. It's our call to basically stop the spread of the virus by educating not just ourselves but everyone around us. Get yourself tested and know your status. Whether you're positive or not, always practice safe sex.

Sources:
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/223333/news/hiv-infections-rising-fast-among-men-ages-20-29
http://www.pnac.org.ph/uploads/documents/publications/NEC_HIV_Apr-AIDSreg2010.pdf
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_AIDS_Day

Posted in: HIV Awareness