The V.I. Department of Health’s STD/HIV/TB Program will commemorate World Aids Day with a series of activities beginning Wednesday and throughout the month of December.
World AIDS Day is observed Dec. 1 each year and is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection. AIDS has killed more than 25 million people, with an estimated 38.6 million people living with HIV globally, making it one of the most destructive epidemics in recorded history, according to a press release issued Tuesday by the DOH.
This year’s theme is “Getting to Zero” with a goal of zero new infections in 2012. Dr. Jerome, DOH acting commissioner, is urging residents to take advantage of free tests during outreach events that will kick-off on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2011.
Studies have shown that with improved treatment and care, people are now living longer with HIV/AIDS; however, in order to receive such life-saving treatment, individuals must be sure to get tested and then take action if infected.
"Knowing your HIV status is the best way to help win the fight against AIDS, and as acting health commissioner, I urge everyone to take heed of this year’s campaign theme, ‘Getting to Zero.’ It starts with each individual knowing their status,” Dr. Jerome said. “Our clinics are available for free and confidential rapid testing — anyone taking the test can know their status within minutes.”
“World AIDS Day is a day to remember those who have been lost to this deadly disease and to give compassion and hope to those who live courageously with HIV/AIDS every day,” Gov. John P. deJongh said. “It is important that we continue to promote HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention in order to help prevent further spread of this disease."
DOH recently hired Dr. Tai C. Hunte, an infectious disease specialist, who will provide fulltime HIV/AIDS services for its STD/HIV/TB Program.
“We are happy to have her on board with this specialty, as this will enable us to continue to be more proactive in HIV/AIDS prevention in the community,” Dr. Jerome said.
World AIDS Day Schedule of Events
November 30, 2011 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. – HIV/AIDS Education/Testing Day
Emancipation Garden
December 1 – 30, 2011 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Display Exhibit, STD/HIV/TB Clinic
Knud Hansen Complex, St. Thomas
Display Exhibit, Lobby
Charles Harwood Medical Complex, St. Croix
December 1, 2011 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — HIV/AIDS Education Day (Wear Red)
Knud Hansen Complex, St. Thomas
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. –HIV/AIDS Education Day (Wear Red)
Charles Harwood Complex, St. Croix
December 13, 2011 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — HIV/AIDS Education Outreach
Westin Hotel, St. John
December 16, 2011 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. — HIV/AIDS Education Outreach
VI Legislature and Austin Babe Monsanto Marine
Terminal (Crown Bay Center)
December 17, 2011 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Education Outreach
Unity Sports Day/Griffith Park
