World AIDS Day
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Taking place on Thursday 1st December, World AIDS Day brings together people from around the world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic.
The day is an opportunity for public and private partners to spread awareness about the status of the pandemic and encourage progress in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care around the world. It has become one of the most widely recognized international health days and a key opportunity to raise awareness, commemorate those who have died, and celebrate victories such as increased access to treatment and prevention services.
Today over 105,000 people live with HIV in the UK. Yet recent research by the National AIDS Trust found 63% of the public do not remember seeing or hearing about HIV in the past six months. Only a third said they have sympathy for people living with HIV regardless of how they acquired it.
The survey also found 1 in 5 think people think you can acquire HIV through kissing. Only 16% knew if someone is on effective treatment, they can’t pass HIV on and can expect to live a long and healthy life.
World AIDS Day is the perfect time to raise much-needed awareness about HIV.
To mark the day, the BBV Clinic will be hosting a stand in the main entrance of the hospital, 10am – 3pm, with free HIV testing available provided by Terrence Higgins Trust. There will also be freebies and a quiz, with a chance to win a family ticket to an MK Dons home league game!
For more information on the HIV Service at MKUH, click here.
