World AIDS Day: Chitkara students attend the expert talk, address common myths & misconceptions

World AIDS Day takes place on December 1, each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, and to show support for people living with HIV.

Globally, there are an estimated 36.7 million people who have the virus. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history. World AIDS Day is important because it reminds the people that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

Keeping the above in view and with an aim to educate themselves and others, students of the Department of Nursing attended an expert talk under the theme “Know your Status – World AIDS Day 2018” at Community Health Center, Kalomajra.

The expert talk was delivered by various experts from the community health field CHC. Experts emphasised on the importance of achieving primary prevention of HIV infection through activities such as confidential counselling and testing program which is available free in government sectors. Students have also explained the present scenario of this program as well as the myths and misconceptions prevalent in the society regarding the disease. Different strategies for the implementation of the National AIDS Control Program in Punjab with impact on epidemic control as well as mother to child transmission were also discussed.