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1 December 2021
Are you ready to take a stand and unite in the fight against HIV and Aids (HIV)? Are you ready to champion those without a voice? Are you ready to show your support for those living with this disease and those who have lost their loved ones to HIV and also those still suffering from the HIV stigma and discrimination on this World Aids Day?
Former South African President Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Many people suffering from Aids and not killed by the disease itself are killed by the stigma surrounding everybody who has HIV and Aids.’
To this day, this statement still reflects our society so perfectly – even 40 years after the first reported HIV-related illnesses and death occurred.
We have, however, come a long way since then. In the past an HIV diagnoses was a death sentence. Today, with all the advancements in medication, detection and treatments, most diagnosed people around the world who are living with HIV are receiving effective treatment and can’t pass the virus on.
Our government believes that South Africa has been relentless in its mission to turn the HIV and tuberculosis (TB) epidemics around and we have notable achievements to celebrate.
However, a review of our efforts in addressing the HIV epidemic over the past 20 years paints a mixed picture. There have been many scientific advances in HIV treatment, and we now have a much better understanding of the virus. More people are receiving antiretroviral treatment, which means HIV infection rates are decreasing. Scientists are also optimistic about the benefits of preventative treatment and progress towards a cure and a vaccine. But despite these advances, stigma and discrimination persist for many people living with or affected by HIV.
You are probably thinking, can one day really make a difference? Well, yes, it can! Commemorating days like World Aids Day are extremely important to create awareness. It reminds the public that HIV is still very much alive – according to stats from UNAIDS, it is affecting around 7,8 million people in South Africa alone.
There are still people with limited knowledge about how to protect themselves and others from contracting HIV. The lack of education around the virus means that people are less likely to go for HIV testing, disclose their HIV status to others, adopt HIV-preventive behaviour or seek treatment, care, and support. This is why a day like World Aids Day is so important. It can help us to spread awareness and share information with those around us.
HIV is a chronic disease, and people living with it can have full and happy lives. Each one of us has a responsibility to treat those who are struggling with an HIV-positive diagnosis with compassion and care, and treat our sexual partner with respect. Addressing stigma and discrimination is important in mitigating the impact of HIV.
We have a dangerously high infection rate in South Africa; the time is now for us do our part, before it is too late.
Support this important cause by:
1 educating those around us to understand how the virus is spread and what they can do to protect themselves;
2 encouraging people to change their sexual behaviour and to practice safe sex;
3 promoting openness – encourage discussions about the virus that could help break down the stigma and silence surrounding it;
4 creating awareness about the plight of those living with the virus and the problems they face because of this in their personal lives, their families, their jobs and in society at large;
5 encouraging regular testing and counselling for all people who are sexually active; and
6 ensuring everyone understand the treatment options once they have been diagnosed and that the diagnoses does not have to be a death sentence.
HIV and Aids helpline: 0800 012 322
This information is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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