Rock the Red Ribbon to Show Your Support on this World AIDS Day!

World AIDS day is annually celebrated on 1^st of December since 1988; where people worldwide unites to combat the stigma surrounding the illness, to raise awareness & money and come out in support of those living with the disease and commemorate those who have succumbed.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a2 spectrum of diseases caused by the infect of human immunodeficiency virus. This virus attacks the victim’s immune system and reduces their immunity to combat diseases. AIDS is the final stage of the person who has contracted HIV.  

Considering how lethal the health condition is, it was only discovered 1984. But, it is still one of the most destructive pandemic in the world’s history, having taken the lives over 40 million people as of present whereas around 38 million continue to live with HIV. One of the main reasons it leads to this is the fact that following initial infection there can be a prolonged period of time without any symptoms.

HIV is primarily spread by unprotected sex, contaminated blood transfusions, hypodermic needles, from mother to child in the course of pregnancy/delivery or breast feeding. There is no cure or vaccine, nevertheless, proper medical treatment can slow the progression of the disease. It is not an immediate death sentence. Yet, according to the United Nations, 12.6 million of those infected to do have access to treatment out of social inequalities and prejudice.

With focus on Maldives, the country has managed to maintain relatively low cases and hopefully can continue to do so through awareness programs. If you ever suspect that you may have been infected, for the ease of your mind, testing can be done at your request at local health institutes.

No one can change their HIV status, but you can change your attitudes. Start simple today by wearing an HIV awareness red ribbon. This is the only how you rock your outfit for the day!