HIV Scotland on World AIDS Day 2011

The 1st of December 2011, marks World AIDS Day. 30 years into the HIV epidemic, HIV Scotland is calling for this World AIDS Day to act as a reminder for us all to take control and arm themselves with the facts about HIV.

Scotland has an impressive track record when it comes to preventing the spread of HIV in our communities. In 1987 the first needle exchange was opened in Edinburgh to curb HIV infection amongst injecting drug users. This work has helped paved the way for other work such targeting gay men and supporting African communities in Scotland.

However, HIV doesn’t discriminate - anyone can become infected if they put themselves at risk. In recent years the increase of HIV transmissions has often been down to lack of education and a reluctance to practice safer sex, by using condoms.

Key figures in the HIV field in Scotland have remarked recently on the lack of awareness about HIV, which can be seen in a short 30 years timeline produced online by HIV Scotland.

George Valiotis, Chief Executive for HIV Scotland had this to say:
If people in Scotland take away one message from this World AIDS Day it should be that HIV doesn’t discriminate. Using condoms are still the best way to protect yourself and others from HIV. Scotland is respected internationally for responding to the HIV epidemic on the ground with solutions that work but some of the misunderstandings and myths about HIV and AIDS do nothing to enable people at a personal level take control. We’d like to see better education about the facts and open and honest discussions about HIV in communities.

If you think you have put yourselves at risk the best thing you can do is go for a test – the earlier the better. HIV tests are free and confidential from sexual health services across Scotland and if you are diagnosed positive, with the right treatments and support you can go onto live a long and healthy life.

For the more information on HIV, the HIV services offering advice and support in your area as well as local World AIDS Day events happening in communities across Scotland visit: www.hivscotland.com

ENDS

Media: If you would like to speak to HIV Scotland about this press release or any aspect of our work please contact us on 0131 558 3713 or email: info@hivscotland.com.
Web: http://www.hivscotland.com/about-hiv-scotland/media/