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What do we observe on the 1st of December? World AIDS day. Created to call attention to and remind us about this well-known yet misunderstood illness, it’s a day for us to learn, debunk common misconceptions, encourage testing, and remind us of the importance of solidarity within communities.
Why is World AIDS Day Still so Important?
Established in 1988, world AIDS day aims to raise awareness, increase support for those affected, and remind us the impact that HIV and AIDS still have on millions of people around the world.
Although new treatments allow people with HIV to live a long life, there are still people around the world becoming infected, and social stigma remains an unfortunate reality. That’s why world AIDS day is important even now, because it encourages education, prevention and collective efforts.
Transmission: How HIV is Transmitted
HIV transmission depends on three elements: a suitable environment, contaminating fluid, and a point of entry. Contrary to popular belief, HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva, sweat, tears, hugs,
kisses
, or sharing day-to-day objects.
Proven modes of transmission are:
- Having unprotected sex with a person living with a detectable viral load of HIV;
- Sharing needles;
- Passing the virus from mother to child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding (risks are almost 0 when undergoing treatment).
Knowing the facts is essential in the fight against fear, shame and prejudice.
Prevention: How to Stay Protected
The prevention of HIV has massively evolved since the virus was first discovered. There are a lot of efficient preventative methods that can be adapted to each individual.
- Internal and external condoms : are an accessible, trustworthy option.
- Regular testing: is a must to know whether you’re infected, and to protect partners.
- PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis): is a very effective preventative treatment for those having been exposed.
- TasP (Treatment as Prevention): a person living with HIV who has an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the infection.
- Home testing kits: so you can test yourself quickly at home.
The more options available, the better the prevention. HIV care must be adapted to each individual.
Testing: Why it’s Essential
Regular testing is the first step in prevention. HIV can remain dormant for years, but the absence of symptoms doesn’t mean the absence of infection.
Getting tested is quick, easy, and very accessible: in testing centres, pharmacies, sexual health clinics, charitable organisations, order at home kits.
Early diagnosis leads to quick treatment, better health and avoiding transmitting the virus to others.
Treatment: Understanding and Living with HIV
Nowadays, antiretroviral treatments allow those infected with HIV to live a long and happy life. When taken regularly, they keep the viral load to an undetectable level to protect your health and prevent transmission to others.
Those living with HIV can have sexual relations, start a family, play sports, travel the world… the real challenge is social, not necessarily medical: fighting discrimination and supporting those living with the virus.
How to Get Involved in the Fight
Everyone is capable of making a difference at their own level.
Wear the red ribbon, share accurate information, encourage people to get tested, support the organisations that are fighting against HIV/AIDS… solidarity is what keeps people going.
