Get to zero on this test
Society’s troubles can feel overwhelming. That’s why, at least subconsciously, when some progress is made it’s natural to push something aside in favor of what appears more urgent.
Yet little could be more urgent than a potentially fatal illness. Zero — that’s the goal. Until we “get to zero” on what’s beatable, status quo isn’t good enough.
“We have been fighting HIV/AIDS, a 100 percent preventable disease, for over 33 years and the number of new [HIV] infections remains the same each year. That tells me we are not talking and teaching enough about HIV,” said Stacie Lechot, director of North Idaho AIDS Coalition.
HIV is an infectious virus, which may or may not lead to AIDS. At last count, there were 39 million dead worldwide from AIDS, and 36 million living with it now, wondering if they’ll survive or join the million or so who died last year. Less than half who need treatment get it; among children, less than a third are being treated. Yes, children. Women. Men. Babies and senior citizens.
It’s getting better. More effective treatments, earlier diagnoses, and fast-and-easy testing have led to a 35 percent global reduction in new AIDS cases since 2000. But we’re not done. Today is World AIDS Day: Get to Zero.
Start with a free test anytime between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. today at North Idaho College’s Student Union Building, offered by NIAC and NIC’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance (if you go take nothing by mouth 15 minutes prior). At 6 p.m. join the vigil at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.
Tired of hearing about AIDS? Think you know all about it?
“When I am testing someone here in North Idaho for HIV and I ask them to tell me what they know about the virus, the numbers are staggering; many do not know anything — or very little — about this preventable virus,” said Lechot. “When I have to tell someone that their test is reactive for HIV, after the initial shock, they often say ‘I wish someone would have told me to be more careful.’”
That’s why we need to keep talking. Because while progress exists, too much remains to be done.
Because prejudice and misinformation still run rampant. This is not a “gay” disease. Or an “African” one (that’s just where it was first identified). Or a “druggie’s.” People who are infected may be none of these things. HIV does not discriminate; yes, certain conditions may increase odds, but none of these is necessary to contract it.
Because it is a day of national and global awareness, established in 1988 by the World Health Organization and recognized by every U.S. president since 1995. Because right now more than a million Americans live with it, including Idahoans in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Sandpoint... One-fifth who carry the virus aren’t aware they are infected, increasing its spread.
NIAC provides testing and information, as well as care, support, and advocacy for individuals infected with HIV in Idaho’s 10 northern counties. Free confidential HIV testing is also available by appointment: (208) 665-1448.
Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Contact her at Sholeh@cdapress.com.