HIV stigma remains an issue

Homophobia and stigma around HIV/AIDS remain some of the most pressing issues affecting prevention, according to those involved in the HIV/AIDS sector.

AIDS organisations are rallying for awareness during annual AIDS Awareness Week, which began at the start of the week.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day. The slogan, -œEnjoy Life. Take Control. Stop HIV, calls on Australians to take personal responsibility in stopping the virus’ spread.

The theme’s positive approach also aims to reduce the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, a problem those involved in HIV prevention say is vital to resolve.

The number of new HIV diagnoses in Australia is still increasing each year, from 718 in 1999 to 1,051 in 2007.

Victorian AIDS Council executive director Mike Kennedy said the week is important in highlighting HIV as a serious issue.

-œHIV hasn’t gone away, it’s still here. It is a preventable disease and it’s something we can all play a role in helping to prevent and equally importantly to diminish the stigma and discrimination that still exists with people with it, he told Southern Star.

People Living With HIV/AIDS president, David Wain said it is important to keep sharing the stories of those living with the virus to help cut through the stigma.

-œIt’s a very different story from what it was 10 years ago and a very different story from what it was 20 years ago. So for a lot of people living with HIV, they’re not hearing anyone’s stories apart from their own and it’s very difficult to know, how do you live with this?

The first World AIDS Day was organised in 1988 by the World Health Organisation. It is hailed as one of the most successful days across the globe in raising public awareness of HIV/AIDS, with more than 190 countries taking part worldwide.