World AIDS Day Recognized in Georgia

December 1st is World AIDS Day, a day for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV.

On Thursday, Governor Deal will renew Georgia’s commitment to preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS, developing and delivering more effective treatment, and finding a cure, by proclaiming December 1, 2011 to be World AIDS Day in Georgia. Georgia will join countries around the world to recognize World AIDS Day. The first ever global health day, World AIDS Day unites people in the fight against HIV, shows their support for people living with HIV, and commemorates those who have died.

“HIV/AIDS has had a devastating impact on our society for 30 years,” said Brandi Williams, HIV Prevention Manager with the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) HIV/AIDS Unit. “It is time for us to recommit ourselves, and Governor Deal is demonstrating that through his proclamation. It is time to come together to seek solutions to address the impact this disease is having on our society.”

The DPH HIV/AIDS Unit works tirelessly year-round to address the HIV epidemic in Georgia. For the past two years, Georgia has implemented the T.E.S.T. Georgia Initiative, “Test Educate Support and Treat.” The goal is to increase HIV testing opportunities for those disproportionately affected by HIV, and for those who test positive, link them to clinical care and other supportive services. Georgia’s Greater than AIDS is a movement to respond to the AIDS crisis among those populations that are disproportionately impacted. Through this campaign and community outreach, Georgia’s Greater than AIDS aims to elevate the public’s understanding and knowledge of HIV/AIDS and confront the stigma surrounding the disease.

There are several events taking place throughout Georgia to observe World AIDS Day. The DPH HIV/AIDS Unit will have representatives at several events across metro Atlanta. Observe World AIDS Day in your own community. Contact your local health department to find out what events are taking place in your area.

-Story by Kimberly Stringer, DPH Communications

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