World AIDS Day 2022 promotes awareness and equity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Jora White, (334) 206-2778

World AIDS Day is held December 1 each year. This day is an opportunity for public and private partners to spread awareness about the status of the epidemic and encourage progress in HIV prevention, treatment, and care around the world.

The World AIDS Day 2022 theme is, “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV." The goal is to encourage people to unite worldwide to eliminate disparities that create barriers for HIV testing, prevention, and access to care. When one has access to low or no cost available services then the opportunity for parity moves the world closer to ending the HIV epidemic.

HIV is not curable, but it is 100 percent preventable. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends being tested at least once a year if a person engages in activities that can transmit HIV infection. Strategies such as abstinence, not sharing needles, and using condoms correctly are methods to prevent HIV. Medical treatments such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are other strategies used to prevent HIV. When adhered to as prescribed, both PrEP and PEP are highly effective for preventing HIV.

Sharon Jordan, Director of the Office of HIV Prevention and Care, states, “It is important to know your testing status. People who know their HIV status have the information they need to modify their behavior, to protect others, get counseling, seek treatment, and/or the support needed to live longer and healthier lives.”

For more information about HIV and free testing, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/hiv.

-30-

11/30/22

County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.

Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama’s health

Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.