Jacob Hembrom
Today we remember World AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), awareness day. The human immune deficiency virus (HIV) causes HIV infection and AIDS. It is a progressive failure of the immune system with life-threatening infections and cancers.
This day is set apart to impart information about AIDS and how to care for those who are its victims. As it is sexual organ related disease, people consider it a social taboo to talk about it or go form treatment.
According to UNICEF report, last year, approximately every 100 second, a child or young person under the age of 20 was newly infected with HIV, bringing total number of children living with HIV to 2.8 million. Sources say that the prevalence rate of HIV/ AIDS has declined in Jharkhand from 0.31% to 0. 13% which is less than the national figure of 0. 31%. It is still a matter of concern as there are 23,000 cases in which 12,000 have been identified; and the rest are unaware of their status.
The HIV/ AIDS pandemic has become part of the contemporary global landscape. It is a growing concern to prevent people from getting infected. In spite of several programs at work at various levels, many people end up being victim of this dreadful disease. Nevertheless, to some extent, successful responses have been addressed to sensitive social factors surrounding HIV prevention, such as loose sexual behaviour, drug abuse, free sex, pre-marital sex, prostitution, homosexuality, stigma, discrimination etc.
Today, what we can do is to show our solidarity towards the victims of this incurable disease. Victims need acceptance, love and care. Governments and world leaders need to take appropriate preventive measures to save all sections of society.