The incredible advances in HIV/AIDS treatment, testing and prevention are still overshadowed by stigma around the subject. To help raise awareness and fight stigma, the Huron County Health Unit is bringing Red Scarf and the “Know HIV. No Stigma” campaign to Seaforth on November 30.
Red Scarf is a movement that lets people know about the positive advances in HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention. Red Scarf also stands against stigma to improve the lives of those living with, affected by and at risk for HIV/AIDS in our community.
“Many people may not know that correct use of antiretroviral (ART) therapy and prevention strategies help people living with HIV to maintain an undetectable viral load. When HIV is undetectable, it is untransmittable,” says Public Health Nurse Kate Underwood.
“At the same time, every three hours a person is diagnosed with HIV in Canada. The stigma connected to HIV makes it hard for people living with HIV and their caregivers to live their lives.”
The last week of November, including World AIDS Day on December 1, is AIDS Awareness Week. Huron County Health Unit staff will be bringing red scarves to Seaforth on the morning of Friday, November 30. Starting at the town hall at 9 a.m., they will be placing scarves around the downtown area as part of a conversation about HIV/AIDS services and supports in Huron County. Anyone is welcome to take a scarf for themselves or pass it along to someone else. Follow the Huron County Health Unit Facebook page for more information.
Learn more about Red Scarf and local AIDS Awareness Week events at redscarf.ca. Learn more about HIV/AIDS and local services at hivaidsconnection.ca.