Raising awareness the key on World Aids Day

Bury is marking World Aids Day (Thursday 1 Dec) and promoting the values of tolerance and inclusion.

This annual event is 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.

More than 105,000 people are living with HIV in the UK, and an estimated 38 million people have the virus worldwide. While the virus was only identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or Aids related illnesses, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.

At this time, people are invited to wear a red ribbon, the universal symbol of awareness and support for people living with HIV.

The Mayor of Bury, Councillor Shaheena Haroon, said: “Despite advances in treatment and understanding of the illness, many people still do not know 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 us that HIV has not gone away, and we still need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 1 December 2022.

Picture: The Mayor of Bury, Cllr Shaheena Haroon, welcomes representatives from The Proud Trust, the VCFA, NHS and the Bury LGBTQI+ Forum.