World AIDS Day 2024: Theme, History, Call To Action

This year’s theme is “Take the rights path: My health, my right!” focusing on the right to health and addressing the inequalities that hinder progress in ending AIDS.

39.9 million people were living with HIV globally at the end of 2023. An estimated 630,000 people died from HIV-related causes in 2023. 1.3 million people acquired HIV in 2023.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the body’s immune system, weakening its ability to fight infections. HIV is spread through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, but not through casual contact like hugging or kissing.

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the final stage of HIV infection, where the immune system is severely compromised.

HIV can be transmitted through unprotected intercourse, sharing needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

World AIDS Day was first observed on December 1, 1988, following the initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Programme on AIDS. It was the first global health day to raise awareness about the growing AIDS epidemic and to remember those who had died from HIV/AIDS.

Initial HIV infection may cause flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, rash). As the virus progresses, people may experience swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, and prolonged fever.

WHO and partners aim to end the HIV epidemic by 2030, with a focus on reaching the most vulnerable populations.

General Public: Advocate for equal access to HIV services, educate others, and support local health initiatives. Health Workers: Provide respectful, stigma-free care, and integrate HIV into routine health interventions. Governments & Ministries of Health: Allocate resources to improve HIV services, reach vulnerable populations, and ensure the safety of health workers.