World HIV (AIDS) Day
The celebration of World Aids Day celebration was conceptualized byJames W. Bunn and Thomas Netter in August 1987. They work with the World Health Organization in Geneva as public information officers for the Global Programme on aids now known as UNAIDS. Mr. Bunn and Mr. Netter presented their idea to then Director of the Global Programme on Aids now called UNAIDS,Dr Jonathan Mann. December 1 was chosen by Mr. bunn for to him the date was perfect timing for the launching of World Aids Day Celebration. thus, the chosen date is vital to the success of the World Aids Day Celebration.
The celebration is aimed to elevate
awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection. World AIDS Campaign ha s been effected to fortify and fastenthe protagonists and campaigning activities of civil society that mark governments and other stakeholders to deliver on their promises and commitments on HIV and AIDS. Whether that is with politicians, policy makers, the donor community or those countries most affected by HIV or indeed a multilateral agency or civil society, the aim is to create an integrated voice on the need to take the action vital to scale up the response to HIV.
Although progress has been made in the global fight against HIV/AIDS, the epidemic proceed to overpower the United States and the international community with 56,300 new HIV infections each year in the U.S. and an estimated 33 million people living with HIV worldwide. Despite recent, better access to antiretroviral treatment and care in many regions of the world, the AIDS epidemic claimed an estimated 2 million lives in 2007, of which about 270,000 were children. While AIDS is a high-risk disease it can be suppressed if proper precautions are taken and greater awareness be given to those who are ignorant of the virus and its repercussions on the human body. Education is pivotal to a potent response to HIV/AIDS. Studies show that educated persons are more likely to know how to prevent HIV infection, to delay sexual activity and to take measures to protect themselves. Education also accelerates behaviour change among people, making them more receptive to prevention messages. Universal primary education is not a substitute for expanded HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention, but it is a necessary factor that complements World Aid Day Celebration’s objectives. World HIV Day is recognized every year on December 1st. Starting in 1988 the world started coming together on that day to reminiscethose lost to AIDS, give hope those who are living with the disease and raise awareness through education about the fight against one of the deadliest pandemics in history.
