Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) will be marking World Aids Day on December 1.
Since 1988, December 1 has been a day to honour the memories of the more than 44 million people worldwide who have died due to AIDS-related illnesses since the epidemic began.
It is also a day to continue to fight the stigma that the disease still has for many, and enhance the importance of awareness and treatment.
A common source of misinformation is how the HIV virus is transmitted. It can not be transmitted by casual contact like shaking hands or sharing food or drinks. It can only be transmitted through direct contact with specific bodily fluids, like blood, that carry enough of the virus.
Additionally, HPPH points out that antiretroviral therapy or ART has transformed the lives of those living with HIV by lowering the amount of HIV in the blood to undetectable levels. These individuals can live healthy lives and won’t transmit HIV to others.
The disease can affect anyone no matter the age, race, sex or gender.
On December 1, HPPH asks that you wear a red ribbon or red scarf to show support for World Aids Day.
For more information on the Red Scarf Movement and to get involved, visit www.redscarf.ca.
"It is estimated that over 65,000 people are living with HIV in Canada. With current medical advancements, these individuals can expect to live long and healthy lives," said Julie Bergman, public health nurse at Huron Perth Public Health. "Despite this, misinformation and stigma continue to pose barriers to HIV elimination efforts," Bergman adds.
