World AIDS Day 2017

What is World AIDS Day? World AIDS Day 2017 You can ask the learners this, and the questions on the following slides, if you wish, or you can just use them as prompts. AIDS - Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome HIV - human immunodeficiency virus World AIDS Day takes place on the 1st December each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day.

Why is it important to mark this day? World AIDS Day 2017 In Scotland, more than 5000 are living with HIV. Globally, there are an estimated 36.7 million people who have the virus. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history. Today, scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment, there are laws to protect people living with HIV and we understand so much more about the condition. Despite this, each year in Scotland around 350 people are diagnosed with HIV, people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition. World AIDS Day is important because it reminds the public and government that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

How is it marked? World AIDS Day 2017 World AIDS Day is an opportunity to show solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV worldwide. Most people do this by wearing an HIV awareness red ribbon on the day. World AIDS Day is a great opportunity to raise money for HIV charities who will help to champion the rights of people living with HIV in the UK.

These are pictures of some events: The world’s largest AIDS ribbon The Falkirk Wheel lit up red to show support for those living with HIV on World AIDS Day Actor Anthony Cotton wearing a red ribbon The White House in the USA displaying a large red ribbon on World AIDS Day A march to show support and campaign for those affected by HIV/AIDS

An introduction to the pandemic: World AIDS Day 2017 An introduction to the pandemic: If the film doesn’t play, you can find the film from the UN here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geh_2OabkRM It was recorded for World AIDS Day 2016, but the messages are still relevant for 2017.

World AIDS Day 2017 People with HIV and AIDS still face stigma in society from those who do not understand the virus and what it means.

What do we mean by stigma? World AIDS Day 2017 What do we mean by stigma? HIV related stigma is when people have negative beliefs, views or attitudes about people living with HIV because of their HIV status. People from communities which are at a higher risk of HIV can also experience stigma because of their association with HIV. Stigma is often the result of fear, a lack of knowledge or understanding, and stereotypes. HIV-related stigma can occur in many places, including workplaces, among family and friends, in health services, and in the community. It can prevent people from getting tested for HIV, and significantly impact on the lives of people living with HIV by fuelling prejudice and discrimination. Discrimination is sometimes referred to as enacted stigma, and happens when people act upon HIV-related stigma. Examples of discrimination can include: Harassment, bullying or verbal abuse Pre-employment HIV testing Denial of rental property Refusal to provide services at nail salons, airlines, gyms or sporting clubs Refusal to provide child and home care services

World AIDS Day 2017 Stigma and HIV: A film highlighting the stigma that many living with HIV still face. If the film doesn’t play you can see it here: http://youtu.be/4lZc5MqDv4k

World AIDS Day 2017 Was there anything that surprised you from that film? Is there anything you have questions about?

Protecting yourself from HIV is simple! World AIDS Day 2017 Protecting yourself from HIV is simple! If you are sexually active: Get tested regularly to know your status Use condoms to practice safe sex.

World AIDS Day 2017 On World AIDS Day we… celebrate the work of doctors and scientists who are working to cure this disease show support for those living with HIV. remember those who have lost their lives through AIDS related illness.

hivscotland.com World AIDS Day 2017 If you have more questions or want to find out more information, talk to your teachers or visit: hivscotland.com Further information is available at hivscotland.com There is also a lesson activity which can be downloaded from the same place as you got this presentation.

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