Table of content
World AIDS Day is annually celebrated on December 1st to mark this year. Tragic even though it is one day of the year when people around the world interactively join an ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS. The immune system is a mechanism that the human body has received a job to fight off infections and diseases recognized by the presence of HIV – the virus. AIDS is the final stage of HIV the immune system of the body is badly destroyed and the immune system is severely damaged. This article will describe the essence of World AIDS Day; its importance for people with HIV/AIDS and the ways one can support those affected by the virus.
What is HIV/AIDS?
This abbreviation stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It’s a virus that works on attacking the body’s defense system, which is the system that helps the body stop itself from infections. HIV causes the bodily system of infected people to be progressively weaker, as the system's natural immune protection mechanism becomes less effective. They are unable to produce enough bodily substances required in fighting the diseases thus making it a tall order to their immune system.
AIDS means acquired immunodeficiency syndrome where the immune system is weakened against infections. It's the HIV infection's ultimate stage. When someone gets HIV, their condition is known as AIDS, and it means that they have a weak and compromised immune system. It also reduces their immunity level which means that they are likely to catch infections and diseases, which would otherwise be the responsibility of the normal healthy immune system.
How is HIV/AIDS transmitted?
Bidirectional spread of HIV happens through blood and certain bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal discharge, and in some cases, breast milk. Among all the means of HIV transmission the most prevalent ones are unprotected sex, injection-drug use, and mother-child transmission during pregnancy, childbearing, and breastfeeding.
One thing that must be remembered is that HIV fails to be passed through ordinary contact, for instance, while hugging, kissing, or shaking hands. Nothing is passed with the food, drinks, and others. This virus is not transmitted by uncleanness, the lavatory, or some other.
Why is World AIDS Day important?
The obviousness of this question lies in the fact that World AIDS Day is important for several reasons.
The international observance of World AIDS Day is essential for many reasons among which a few are to be listed. Hence, it is the day when we acknowledge those who gave their lives due to diseases associated with AIDS.
It's a day that reminds us of the need to stand for the people who are living with HIV/AIDS and demands a deeper understanding of the role of HIV prevention, testing, and appropriate treatment.
On the other side, next year's World AIDS Day is also the day, which provides a chance for everyone to fight against the HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination. The society might treat the HIV/AIDS clients with stigma and hatred simply because of their status. By working against stigma by informing everyone we will not only decrease stigma levels but we can come to a society where people with HIV/AIDS are as well as other people who they are of the society too.
What can you do on World AIDS Day?
One can take up many initiatives on this day, the World Aids Day. A red ribbon can be your symbol of unity with others who are infected. It is an international sign used for people living with HIV/AIDS. You can attend gatherings and activities by partaking in events like, candlelight vigils, health fairs, or fundraisers for HIV/AIDS organizations.
Through next way is arousing you and others with respect to education about HIV/AIDS. There is no better edification than knowing how the virus is transmitted, how infection can be prevented, and how people living with HIV/AIDS can access treatment and more importantly, support services. In addition, do not be afraid to ask your classmates or relatives about HIV/AIDS in order to clarify possible questions and destroy myths.
Expanding Access to Treatment and Prevention
Immediately after fighting HIV/AIDS, the provision of equally accessible treatment and prevention and services has been shown to be one of the most critical steps. However, a limited number of people across the world are still dimensioned by many factors that make it hard for them to access HIV testing, treatment, and care. It could be why people affected by poverty, stigma, discrimination, and the healthcare delivery system stay poorly treated.
On this World AIDS Day, we also stand for other strategies and policies that expand access to HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, and care for all groups in the country. These include activities to increase the number of HIV tests offered to the public, ensure that the cost of medications needed for treatment is low enough for people who are most in need, and create and provide support systems for those living with HIV and AIDS.
Combating Stigma and Discrimination
Stigma and discrimination, causing HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, and treatment programs margins. Many persons with HIV/AIDS violence may be the constant victims of prejudice and discrimination that stem from their neighbors, colleagues, and even their own relatives. The consequence may be, which can cause fear, shame, and isolation when finding healthcare and support is hard.
By World AIDS Day, we are happy to say we try to make people think differently and fight stereotypes and stigma, educating them about empathy, tolerance, and compassion. We urge all of you to be conscious of HIV/AIDS, stand against the spreading of the stigma and discrimination, and offer kindness to the people living with HIV/AIDS.
Conclusion
World AIDS Day serves as the worldwide community solidarity platform that evokes remembrance of participants of AIDS-related ailments, supports people who are living with HIV/AIDS, and stimulates recommitment in the struggle to end HIV/AIDS epidemics for the benefit of humanity. Through raising awareness levels, challenging the stigma, and advocating for preventive measures, testing, and treatment efforts, we can all play our share in the HIV/AIDS fight.
Jointly, we can build a world where everyone gets what he or she deserves, irrespective of gender, race, or economic status, among others. This includes getting the information, care, and support to be able to live healthily and positively, free of the fear, stigma, and discrimination associated with HIV and AIDS.
FAQs:
1. Everyone has heard about HIV and AIDS somehow but the question is: What is the main difference between them?
1. The virus going by the name HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the causative agent of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV targets and decimates the immune system whilst AIDS represents the final stage when immunity is destroyed.
2. Can HIV/AIDS be cured?
2. Remedies for HIV/AIDS currently exist, which enable people living with HIV/AIDS to live long, healthy lives as long as those people are on their medication and well-treated by medical practitioners. Measures in general are based on a mix of antiretroviral therapy (ART) medications that are effective in controlling the virus and preventing the disease from developing into AIDS. Quick diagnosis and therapy are the fundamental factors that cause positive results.