It's time to rock that ribbon!

Date: 12/01/20

Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day. It takes place on the first of December every year. World AIDS Day is a chance for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV. You can do this by showing your support for people living with HIV and honoring those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses.

World AIDS Day is important because it increases awareness, fights prejudices and improves education surrounding HIV/AIDS. Most people show their support by wearing an HIV awareness red ribbon on World AIDS Day.

Today the red ribbon has become a symbol of support for people living with HIV. Wearing a red ribbon is a simple, but powerful way to challenge the stigma surrounding AIDS. It can also be a great way to start important conversations about HIV/AIDS. Wear yours with pride this World AIDS Day. Don’t have a ribbon? Try making your own!External Link All you need is red ribbon and a safety pin.

According to the CDC, over 1.2 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2018. Of those 1.2 million people, one in seven did not know they had HIV/AIDS. Most people do not have any symptoms during the early stages of HIV. Those who do get symptoms experience flu-like symptoms 2 to 4 weeks after infection with HIV.

Symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks and include:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Rash
  • Night sweats
  • Muscle aches
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Mouth ulcers

More than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history. Thanks to scientific advances we understand so much more about the condition. Despite this, many people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others. The stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with HIV/AIDS.

Getting tested is the only way to know if you have HIV. If you are living with HIV, early treatment means you can live a full and healthy life. Free, fast and confidential HIV tests are available. You can find a testing site near you using the NPIN CDC Search EngineExternal Link.

For more information on World AIDS Day visit the World AIDS website at: worldaidsday.org/External Link