World Aids Day is celebrated on the first day of December. This day is identified to help spread awareness about the epidemic caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, help raise money to find a cure for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), as well as to remember any loved one who has been lost to this disease.

Anyone can celebrate this day; it’s meant for people to unite and fight against HIV/AIDS. Some activities recommended for this day include getting tested for AIDS, volunteering at testing locations, sharing and listening to stories about and from AIDS victims, educating ourselves on the disease, and supporting anyone who has contracted AIDS.

When celebrated with a purpose, this day affects people in a positive way. We get to understand and educate ourselves on this epidemic, support and show empathy for anyone who has AIDS, show people that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and encourage them to stay strong.

AIDS/HIV was first discovered in the 1980s. In 1999, Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) was discovered in Chimpanzee’s. SIV in animals is the identical HIV in humans and both had crossed paths (http://tiny.cc/yxx3tz).

AIDS can be contracted in a couple of different ways: through open wounds, blood-contaminated bodily fluids, or sexual intercourse. It cannot be spread through saliva. Drug use and unprotected sex are often the cause of the spread of AIDS.

Testing is available and those who find themselves with some symptoms should get tested immediately. Symptoms include rapid weight loss, fever or night sweats, tiredness, swelling of the lymph glands and more.

At this moment, there is no cure for AIDS, but there is medication to slow down the progression of the disease. December 1 is a day to become more aware of the ways to prevent AIDS and to support those who suffer from it. The 2020 theme is Global solidarity, shared responsibility.