Each year on December 1st the global community unites to support people and communities affected by HIV while honoring the memories of those lost far too soon to HIV-related illnesses. World AIDS Day is an opportunity to celebrate the significant impact that improved medical care and treatment has on health outcomes for people living with HIV.
Today, we have proven treatment options that can not only keep people with HIV healthy and keep them from developing AIDS, but can also prevent passing HIV to their sexual partners.
As we continue working towards a time when HIV no longer remains a major public health concern, we must acknowledge the challenges that remain. Not all communities are benefiting equally from the progress made in prevention, care, and treatment of HIV.
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Unequal progress continues to fuel HIV infection, especially in communities most affect by HIV — Southern United States, minority racial and ethnic groups, people who use drugs, and those of sexual and gender minority groups.
Although we have “life-changing” tools to prevent and treat HIV, many people who need it most are not accessing these newer, more effective tools because of inequities they continue to experience. Major barriers like bias by healthcare providers, discrimination, and stigma keep millions of people from knowing their HIV status and connecting to prevention or treatment services. Removing barriers puts equity at the forefront and increases access to healthcare and support services for people in vulnerable communities.
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While there is still no cure for HIV, early testing, medical care and treatment, and keeping an undetectable viral load makes it possible for people with HIV to live a normal lifespan. Taking HIV medicine can keep the amount of virus in the body to an undetectable level preventing a person from passing HIV to sex partners (known as U=U or Undetectable = Untransmittable).
All people living with HIV should start treatment regardless of how healthy they are or how long they have been living with HIV.
If you think you have HIV, or been exposed, contact the New Jersey AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline to get connected to free HIV and other STI services in New Jersey. The hotline is staffed by health professionals (doctors, nurses, and pharmacists) and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide free, confidential help: Call 1-800-624-2377 or Chat Here.
Get Tested. Start Treatment. Stop HIV.
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This release was written by the NJ AIDS/HIV/STD Hotline
