World AIDS Day 2021

Today is World AIDS Day. Taking place on 1 December each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day.

Why is World AIDS Day Important?

Over 105,200 people are living with HIV in the UK. Globally, there are an estimated 38 million people who have the virus. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS related illnesses, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.

Today, scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment, there are laws to protect people living with HIV and we understand so much more about the condition. Despite this, each year in the UK over 4,139 people are diagnosed with HIV, people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition.

World AIDS Day is important because it reminds the public and government that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

What is AIDS?

AIDS is the name used to describe a range of really dangerous infections and illnesses that can happen when your immune system has been badly damaged by the HIVE virus.

HIV is a virus that damages the cells in your bodies immune system. HIV weakens your bodies ability to fight of infections and disease.

There’s currently no cure for HIV but there are now drugs that help people with the virus to live a long healthy life.

What causes HIV?

HIV is transmitted through unprotected sex with a person who has the virus. It can also be passed on through the sharing of needles, syringes and through pregnancy if the mother has the virus to the baby.

For more information on HIV, AIDS and getting support visit Sexual Health Wirral