Arwyp highlights the quest to combat new HIV infections

Zero new HIV infection. Zero discrimination. Zero AIDS-related deaths. This was the message highlighted on the 16th November 2011 when Arwyp Medical Centre had an informative talk regarding HIV and AIDS awareness that took place at the Bible house Auditorium.  The guest speaker was AIDS specialist, Dr van der Westhuizen. He stressed the fact that unfortunately people are still trying to fight the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS. Communities and individuals are still not getting tested due to the social implication which testing positive implies.  Most of the people who attended the session were ATI students and lecturers. Feedback given was that some of the difficulties encountered were things like when people find out about their status they sometimes take time to use the medication because they have to adhere with  their cultural process first. By the time they use the medication, their CD4 count is affected. Others that are infected do not use the medication consistently. Once they see the medications’ side effects, they stop using them. The doctor said it is important for people to go for counseling and be consistent with the medication as the side effects will stop once the person gets used to the medication. They need to exercise; either use protection at all times during sexual activities or abstain and eat healthily so that they can live longer. The doctor also mentioned how important it is to be supportive at all times to people who are affected whether directly or indirectly by HIV/AIDS.  The only way we can fight the disease is to educate more and more people about it, stop being ignorant, get tested and support one another.