HIV/AIDS
More than 65 million people worldwide have become infected with HIV and over 25 million have died since the start of the pandemic over two decades ago.
The Secretariat’s role in addressing HIV/AIDS is directed by its overarching aim to attain the MDGs. Commonwealth governments have adopted a multi-sectoral approach to combat the pandemic which addresses health, gender, education, economic affairs, the public sector and human rights.
The Secretariat has assisted member countries in implementing policies that address the role of men in preventing HIV/AIDS. It is also helping countries strengthen the health and education sector’s response to HIV/AIDS. Through workshops and seminars, the Health Section provides a platform for the sharing of best practices and emerging trends in the field.
The Secretariat will continue to use its vantage point to be a voice on the global stage, thereby supporting the efforts of governments, international partners, local communities and people affected by HIV and AIDS.
What you should know about HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS: How is it transmitted, how is it prevented, and how can we stop it?
1 How is HIV/AIDS transmitted?
- Sexual or oral intercourse with an infected partner.
- Sharing infected needles or syringes when injecting drugs.
- From an HIV positive mother to her child. However, there are proven steps mothers can take to drastically reduce the likelihood, namely by using an approved antiretroviral drug recommended by a physician.
- Through breastfeeding by an infected mother.
- HIV is not transmitted via casual contact or kissing.
2. Methods for Prevention:
- Know your status. Get tested and support those who choose to do so.
- If you are HIV positive, take precautions against passing HIV onto your partners.
- Respect and support your partner if they want to have safe sex.
- Men can make a difference - Stop abuse, respect your partner, and be faithful.
- ABC - Abstain, Be faithful, Use Condoms.
- The ABC method has limitations. It must be used in conjunction with other activities such as gender empowerment, education, human rights, treatment and care for persons living with HIV/AIDS, reduction of stigma and discrimination and access to services for vulnerable populations.
3. How can we stop AIDS?
- We will not be able to fight AIDS unless we unite. We must break the silence and shame that surrounds AIDS and deal with it openly and honestly.
- By talking about AIDS we can stop it. Talk to your children. Speak out if you, your loved ones, or your friends are infected and/or affected.
- Stand by those who are suffering.
- Demand access to health care and antiretroviral drugs. It's your right.
- People living with AIDS need our support and care - they are no different from people with any other illness.
