December 1 is World AIDS Day

Today December 1^st, 2021 is #WorldAidsDay.

What is World AIDS Day?

World AIDS Day takes place on 1 December each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day.

Each World AIDS Day, organizations and individuals across the world bring attention to the HIV epidemic, endeavor to increase HIV awareness and knowledge, speak out against HIV stigma, and call for an increased response to move toward Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America.

DID YOU KNOW….

- In 2019, Florida had the third-highest rate of new HIV diagnoses per 100,000 people in the U.S. (Including the District of Columbia). Source: HIV Surveillance Report 2019; 32
- Orlando is the 22^nd largest metropolitan area in the U.S., yet it ranks 3^rd for rates of new HIV infections. Source: HIV Surveillance Report 2019; 32

What can I do on World AIDS Day?

- Buy/Wear a red ribbon: World AIDS Day is an opportunity to show solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV worldwide. Most people do this by wearing an HIV awareness red ribbon on the day.
- Get tested: Getting tested is the only way to find out if you have HIV. If you are living with HIV, starting treatment early means you can live a full, healthy and productive life. Free and confidential HIV tests are available in multiple locations around Orlando, FL such as Miracle of Love, AHF Healthcare Center, LGBT+ Center Orlando, 26Health and many more!
- Donate: There’s multiple non-profit organizations that you could donate here in Orlando, FL and worldwide. Why should you donate? You want to create a world in which everyone is always in the best of health. Educate Yourself: We live in a world where talking about HIV/AIDS can be uncomfortable for multiple people due to previous stigma. Things to know:
  - Everyone is exposed to HIV/AIDS regardless of sexual orientation
  - There’s a pill to PREVENT HIV
  - There’s a pill to TREAT HIV and reduce viral load
  - People who are undetectable are “untransmittable” – which means they can’t transmit the virus to another person