GREAT BAY(DCOMM):--- The theme for World AIDS Day 2015 which is observed around the globe on December 1st is, “On the Fast-Track to end AIDS.”
Already 15 million people are accessing life-saving HIV treatment. New HIV infections have been reduced by 35 per cent since 2000 and AIDS-related deaths have been reduced by 42 per cent since the peak in 2004.
The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government department under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, calls on the Sint Maarten community to prevent HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths and to eliminate HIV-related stigma and discrimination.
CPS staff are wearing T-shirts to observe the day with the rest of the world with the theme, “Collectively getting to Zero.” The staff will be wearing their red shirts every Friday for the month of December in commemoration of World AIDS Day.
The new Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Emil Lee was also present for the photo op.
“Ending the AIDS epidemic means that adolescent girls and young women have access to education and appropriate HIV and sexual and reproductive health services.
“It means that key populations, such as people who inject drugs and transgender people, have full access to health services delivered with dignity and respect. It means that every child is born free from HIV, and that they and their mothers not only survive but thrive.
“This is an exciting time in the AIDS response. We are building momentum towards a sustainable, equitable and healthy future for all,” Executive Director of United Nations (US) AIDS Under-Secretary-General of the UN Michel Sidibe pointed out in part of his message.
To end the AIDS epidemic by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals will require investment, commitment and innovation to be accelerated.
The Fast-Track approach entails: front-loads investments; focuses on the locations, populations and programmes that deliver the greatest impact; catalyses innovation for people who need it most; engages local leadership for targeted, sustained and accountable responses; creates new partnerships; stands firm on human rights; and delivers results that leave no one behind.
For information you can call CPS 542-2078 or 542-3003.
