Canberrans are being invited to unite in the fight against HIV for this upcoming World AIDS Day, Tuesday 1 December.
Formerly known as the AIDS Action Council of the ACT, Meridian will host the free event in the hope to raise awareness of the incurable disease.
“There is no vaccine or cure for HIV, however there are highly effective treatments. People with HIV take medications on a daily basis to maintain their HIV at an undetectable level and to keep them healthy,” Meridian CEO Philippa Moss said.
“By being informed about what HIV is and how it can be transmitted, we can take measures to look after ourselves and others.”
While Australia recorded its lowest number of HIV diagnoses since 2001 during 2018, there were still 835 cases diagnosed that year.
This year’s national World AIDS Day theme is ‘Now More Than Ever’, while UNAIDS’ theme is ‘Global Solidarity, Shared Responsibility’. UNAIDS is leading the global effort to end AIDS as a public threat by 2030.
Ms Moss said community support for those with HIV was paramount in championing the cause and asked the wider community to show their support.
“It is a significant opportunity to show your support for people with HIV. Even the simplest gestures – such as wearing a red ribbon pin – can go a long way to showing that you care and help to break down community stigmas,” she said.
“Another way to support people living with HIV is to engage friends and family in a conversation about HIV, taking the opportunity to increase understanding, decrease stigma and dispel the myths that still exist in our society.”
The morning tea event will be held on Sunday 29 November 10am-12pm at Meridian – Havelock House.
The event is free for all, however RSVPs are essential and can be done online via Eventbrite.
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