‘HIV infections running at 1 000 a day’

And he says early detection and proper treatment can help people with the virus live normal lives.

Hetzer said he contracted HIV while abusing crystal meth. Today, he applauds everyone who recognizes World AIDS Day.

The minister said that while this may seem to be a lofty ambition, the 90/90/90 by 2020 Target is imperative for ensuring that the AIDS epidemic ends by the year 2030. Discussions will be focused on providing information about all aspects of HIV and Aids, including the latest scientific information and perspectives.

“One of our main missions is the HIV testing- to make sure that all citizens have access to free, confidential testing”, said Susan Alt, the Director of the HIV program for Coastal Health District.

“About 1 000 people become infected with HIV in South Africa each day”.

This is less than the number it recorded for the past two years, where it had 64 recorded cases.

World AIDS Day was established on December 1, 1988 as a day to build world awareness about HIV. “HIV is about global health and we need to fast truck and quicken the pace of action”, he said. The National AIDS Trust (NAT) is challenging people to rethink negative stereotypes, forget old traditions and be positive about HIV.

The foundation even called for deeper compassion for people living with or affected by HIV and AIDS.

Health workers urged the lone way towards eradicating the fatal virus is by making people aware about it and stop it from spreading.

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Amina Shamaki stated that with the support of partners, Nigeria has been able to provide prevention, care and treatment services to a large number of Nigerians but there is still a lot of grounds to cover. It should be talked about on a daily basis due to the fact that that our HIV stats are the same of new infections per year.

He said the zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero HIV deaths slogan can also be attained through leadership commitment.

“Vaccines preventing as well as vaccines that might be effective in stimulating the immune system in somebody that’s already HIV positive to eradicate the virus”, explained Gulick.