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| MEDIA RELEASE REMEMBER THE RED RIBBON!The red ribbon is an international symbol of AIDS awareness that is worn by people all year round and particularly around World AIDS Day to demonstrate care and concern about HIV and AIDS and to remind others of the need for their support and commitment. While in Australia HIV/AIDS epidemic is not what it is in other parts of the world, we should recognise the impact of the virus on other countries. This year’s theme for World AIDS Day is Women, girls and HIV/AIDS. In Australia, women are a minority of the HIV population, however, for those affected by HIV; discrimination, shame and loneliness can all be a factor with this disease. There are approximately 1,150 women in Australia living with HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS has also impacted women as carers for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Women who are the principal, home-based carers and who are friends or family members who provide a range of practical, physical and emotional support need to be also acknowledged. Australia is a leader in the control of HIV/AIDS but we need to recognise the importance of continually raising awareness within the Australian population, and in particular the impact on women and girls. We need to also encourage understanding and acceptance in the community of people living with HIV/AIDS including women and girls. Australia shares a responsibility for answering the global challenges
of the HIV epidemic by providing education, support and to assist where
possible treatments and care. |