The HIV/Aids Unit observed World Aids Day with a health screening campaign at the Bellville Campus.
Worlds Aids Day is observed around the world on December 1, and this year’s theme was Communities make the difference.
“It is also a time where we remember those living with HIV and, most of all, send out a message of hope and say it is possible to be infected with HIV and live a completely healthy and productive life,” said Melanie Marais, Head of the HIV/Aids Unit.
According to the UNAIDS, 37, 9 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2018. A total of 24, 5 million people were accessing anti-retroviral treatment by the end of June 2019.
“It is important to know that, although HIV infection cannot be cured, it is manageable, treatable and can be controlled through antiretroviral therapy.”
The health screening campaign included free screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, TB and HIV.
“These services are available throughout the year across all our campuses. HIV infection is highly preventable and we encourage our colleagues and students to know their HIV statuses, and have measures in place to protect themselves from HIV infection,” added Marais.
Written by Ilse Fredericks
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