World AIDS/HIV Vaccine Awareness Day: History, Significance & Theme

On May 18, the world marks World AIDS Vaccine Day, also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day. The day is observed to raise awareness about the necessity of discovering a vaccine to prevent infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and AIDS (Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome).

The day also honours the volunteers, health professionals who assist them, and scientists who are working relentlessly to develop an effective and safe HIV vaccine.

The entire medical community is being encouraged to recognize the need of investing in innovative and effective technologies that may provide a comprehensive solution to this life-threatening crisis on World AIDS Vaccine Day.

What exactly is HIV & AIDS?

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) weakens the immune system and prevents White Blood Cells (WBC) from fighting disease effectively, allowing life-threatening infections to develop.

AIDS is a late stage of HIV infection in which the body's immune system gets severely harmed by the virus.

History of HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

In 1998, the first World HIV/AIDS Vaccine Awareness Day was observed throughout the world. On May 18, 1997, then-US President Bill Clinton gave a commencement speech at Morgan State University that inspired the creation of HIV Vaccine Awareness Day. Only a really efficient, preventative HIV vaccine, according to Clinton, can control and eradicate the lethal illness.

He urged the world to create an AIDS vaccine within the next decade by maximizing the utilization of science and technology.

Since then, the 18^th of May has been designated as World AIDS Vaccine Day to commemorate Clinton's address. On this day, numerous organizations throughout the world mark the day to reinforce AIDS prevention measures, encourage researchers, and guarantee that the general public participates actively in this noble cause.

Significance of HIV/AIDS Vaccine Awareness Day

HIV is a contagious disease that may be spread through unprotected intercourse, body fluids, and needle sharing. It can also be passed on from mother to kid through pregnancy, delivery, or nursing. Within a few weeks of the infection, certain early symptoms such as flu, fever, and sore throat might be detected.

Antiretroviral therapies (ART) can slow the progression of the disease, but there is yet no definitive cure. Infected persons can now live long and healthy lives due to current HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care.

World HIV/AIDS Awareness Day: Theme of 2022

There hasn't been a topic declared for this year's World AIDS Vaccine Day, also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day.