01/12/2025
WORLD AIDS DAY
Why Today Matters • Today reminds us that millions of people are living with HIV and AIDS
• It’s a day to learn, understand and show support
• It’s also a chance to clear misconceptions and reduce fear
What HIV Really Does • HIV enters the body and attacks the CD4 cells that protect you
• As CD4 cells reduce, the immune system becomes weak
• When the immune system can’t fight infections anymore, it becomes AIDS
• AIDS is not a new virus. It is simply the late stage of untreated or poorly treated HIV
The Good News Many Don’t Know:
• HIV is no longer a death sentence
• Antiretroviral medications keep the virus under control
• When taken consistently, the viral load drops to an undetectable level
• Undetectable means untransmittable
• People with HIV can live long, healthy and normal lives
Why We Must Talk About It:
• Many people still fear testing
• Stigma makes people hide symptoms
• Silence allows HIV to spread
• Education protects families and communities
What We Can Do Today:
• Encourage regular testing
• Support people living with HIV
• Stop discrimination
• Share correct information
• Show compassion
• Use your voice to spread awareness