Elton John AIDS Foundation commemorates World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day is observed around the world on December 1 each year. An estimated 1.2 million people died of AIDS-related causes in 2014, a figure 42 percent lower than the peak seen in 2004.

Too often, people remain quick to pass judgment on those living with the virus.

The CDC estimates some 156,000 Americans do not know they are infected.

The understanding of HIV and all the myths, facts and stereotypes surrounding it can help people contain the virus with conscious protection as well as help the fight against aids by reducing the price of medicines and treatment.

“We are trying to make people aware that its very simple, and just give them the steps in order to keep from getting infected”, said HIV and AIDS Educator, Dan Rodriguez.

“The first line of defense is always prevention”, she said.

In the city, Mayor Bill de Blasio’s administration will – among other efforts – expand the HIV/AIDS Services Administration housing, nutrition and transportation assistance to all New Yorkers with HIV or AIDS, regardless of whether they show symptoms. “We need to provide adolescent girls and young women with access to education and real options to protect themselves from HIV”.

“We thank the Canadian researchers and doctors who have played such an important role in the medical advancements that have revolutionized the prevention and treatment of HIV, making it possible for many diagnosed with the infection to live full lives”.

“I think people have become less concerned about it, and I think that’s one of the reasons the Department of Health and the governor are bringing out their end of AIDS campaign”, explained John Barry, executive director of the Southern Tier AIDS Program.

Today marks World Aids Day and deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa says the country has the biggest HIV treatment programme globally.

Manipur, which has the highest adult HIV prevalence in the country, has recorded zero death and also zero new HIV positive case during the last three years, Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi said while observing the World AIDS Day here on Tuesday.