DELAWARE AND THE WORLD OBSERVE WORLD AIDS DAY DEC. 1

One Of The Most Destructive Pandemics In History Is Still A Fight In Progress

Despite progress, HIV/AIDS remains one of the most frightening yet preventable diseases of our time, killing over 25 million people worldwide from 1981 to 2007 and identifying itself as one of the most destructive pandemics in history. Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) asks all Delawareans to unite in the fight against this disease and, as part of the world community, observe the 24th annual World AIDS Day on Dec. 1.

"World AIDS Day marks an opportunity to educate Delawareans on preventing this devastating disease and the community resources available to help," said Gov. Jack Markell. "With partners in our communities, we will continue to work every day to prevent more Delawareans from being infected with HIV/AIDS, and to treat those with the disease with the utmost care and compassion."

Delaware has more than 3,600 people battling this disease-two-thirds who are African Americans. Long-term and steady efforts by DPH and its partners continue to educate, treat and prevent HIV/AIDS. However, new cases among young homosexual and bisexual men ages 15-29 are rising, from 15 cases in 2001 to 31 in 2010.

"Now more than ever it is important that people get tested if they are at risk of being infected," said Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH director. "This is because people who test positive can be treated and treatment is prevention. The drugs that are available today often reduce the levels of virus in the blood to such low levels that they are unlikely to infect others."

For those coping with HIV/AIDS, there is hope. New studies are encouraging, showing that proper treatment of HIV/AIDS can not only extend the healthy life of those with HIV, but can also greatly decrease the chances of transmission. If you have HIV and are not getting treatment, please call the Delaware HIV Consortium at 302-654-5471. There is no waiting list for treatment in Delaware! Go to www.hivtest.org to find a testing center near you and a counselor that can help you figure out which safer practices are best for you.

World Aids Day events scheduled statewide include:

NEW CASTLE COUNTY

KENT COUNTY

SUSSEX COUNTY

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.