Say'NO' to AIDS

Mangalore: Most of us fortunately recognize and understand the significance of the red ribbon. It is a global symbol for solidarity with HIV positive people and those living with AIDS. Though red ribbon is also a symbol for drunk-driving prevention and drug prevention, this discussion will be all about AIDS, its causes, prevention and the myths surrounding it.

Every year, December 1 is observed as World AIDS Day - dedicated to raising awareness about AIDS, caused by the spread of HIV infection.

What is AIDS and HIV?

HIV is the infection that causes AIDS. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a lentivirus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a condition in humans in which progressive failure of the immune system allows life-threatening opportunistic infections and cancers to thrive.

If a person tests positive for HIV, it does not necessarily mean that the person has AIDS.  A diagnosis of AIDS is made by a physician according to the CDC AIDS Case Definition. A person infected with HIV may receive an AIDS diagnosis after developing one of the CDC-defined AIDS indicator illnesses. A person with HIV can also receive an AIDS diagnosis on the basis of certain blood tests (CD4 counts) and may not have experienced any serious illnesses.

Common causes of AIDS

HIV can be transmitted through blood, sexual fluids, or breast milk of an HIV-infected person. HIV is transmitted primarily via unprotected sexual intercourse (including anal and even oral sex), contaminated blood transfusions, hypodermic needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.

Let's not get infected

Say NO to

·       Unprotected sexual intercourse

·       Re-use of needles or syringes

·       Intravenous drugs that are not prescribed by your physician. This can increase your risk of infection with HIV and make you more likely to participate in risky sexual behavior.

·       Getting tested if you become pregnant

Curiosity kills the cat; so does ignorance. Most of the time we like to live in self-denial mode but a little open-mindedness can save us.

·       Seek treatment if you think you have been exposed to other STDs, such as gonorrhea, syphilis, or chlamydia. Infection with these diseases can increase your risk of contracting HIV.

·       Ask a health professional about other HIV prevention strategies

·       A blood test can determine you are infected with HIV. Too many people don't know they have HIV.

Myths and misconceptions

·       One can be infected by being around people who are HIV positive

·       One can get HIV by mosquitoes

·       New drugs are available to heal a person from HIV viruses, one need not worry about being   infected

·       My life will end the day I'm HIV infected

·       If one doesn't use IV drugs and is honest in his relationship he will not be HIV infected

·       One can make out if their partner is HIV positive by being around them

Is Mangalore AIDS/HIV aware?

Fortunately, yes.  World AIDS Day and also AIDS week is celebrated by organizing campus rallies, speeches, street plays by many institutions and organizations all over Mangalore. Though all are worthy of a mention here, I have chosen few

St. Agnes College: St. Agnes College has an AIDS Awareness Education Cell. It was started in the year 1999, and as implied by the name, works to create among youth, awareness regarding the prevention of AIDS and care of AIDS victims. Yearly activities include: Orientation for New Members, Training of Educators, Educative Sessions, relevant competitions, conducting AIDS Awareness Week and also visits to rehabilitation centers and hospitals.

Sadhan Sanchari clinic:

Since knowledge is the key to prevention of many diseases the'SADHAN SANCHARI CLINIC' aims at providing that facility to the common man. It has introduced a mobile van which travels all over the district and camps at strategic locations like construction sites, slums, beaches, at fairs or festive gatherings. The inside of the van is divided into 3 sections; the counseling, testing and treatment sections.

The Sadhan clinic has its base in Kotara Chowki and can be identified by a yellow van. There are male and female counselors. They also have an Inter-personal communicator who breaks the news of the existence of HIV to patients if tested positive.

KMC Hospital Attavar:

KMC Hospital Attavar is the first to have an Infectious Disease Unit, which treats all infections including HIV. It has treated nearly 2000 HIV patients and has been responsible for the long time survival of nearly 750 patients who have been leading healthy lives even after 10 years of diagnosis.

Not just this, Mangalore, known for its educational institutions has schools and colleges enlightening their students through seminars, awareness programmes and talks about HIV and AIDS.

What will you do to mark World AIDS Day?