World AIDS Day is observed on December 1 every year around the world. It is a time for reflection, solidarity with those who are affected, and their families and it is a time to plan even more decisive actions.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2022, is Equalize. Let us join our own local
organizations, the Ministry of Health Wellness and Elderly Affairs, the World Health Organization, UNAIDS, the Pan American Health Organization and all those who have championed the HIV/AIDS cause over the years in this year’s observance.

HIV is a virus which attacks the cells that help the body to fight infections. A
person infected with HIV becomes vulnerable to other infections and diseases. HIV spreads when an un-infected person gets in contact with blood or genital fluids from someone with HIV. A person who has HIV most likely will eventually develop AIDS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, therefore treatment is absolutely a must to prevent serious illness and even
death. HIV medication, also known as anti-retroviral treatment, is available
to all persons living with HIV and is free of cost, from all pharmacies that
distribute HIV medication. Any person living with HIV can get their doctor’s
visits, monitoring tests and other necessary medications, from within the
Public System without any cost to them. Public Services can be accessed
within the Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinics by calling to make an
appointment or by doing a walk-in, in an emergency. There is help, please access that help and let medical professionals help you to have a better quality of life if you have become infected.

A finger-prick, a Rapid HIV test and 15 minutes is all it takes to find out
whether you may or may have HIV. This is a free service provided by the
Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs. In addition to this service
being available at the Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinics, you may access Rapid HIV testing services in all eight health regions in St. Lucia. Medication to prevent the transmission of HIV called PrEP, also known as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis is also available, free of charge to the recipient.

As of September 30th, 2022, there are 917 persons living with HIV in St. Lucia. Of them, 298 persons in care are actively collecting HIV medication, 56% of them are male and 44% of them are female. There have been eight (8) AIDS related deaths in St. Lucia, from January to October 31, 2022.
Saint Lucia has come a very long way since diagnosing our first known case
of HIV in 1985. All HIV prevention, testing, treatment and monitoring services are readily available, and no one is denied access to those services. We have moved from no treatment for HIV to being able to Treat All persons living with HIV in St. Lucia.

This year UNAIDS is urging all of us to tackle inequalities that help to
perpetuate the AIDS pandemic. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic and
other global crises have slowed the treatment and focus on HIV/AIDS, causing many more people to be at risk.

The international community hopes that by 2030 AIDS will no longer be a
global health threat. To achieve this ambitious, goal we can work together
with our local and Regional partners to advance actions which will end stigma and discrimination.

There is help for all. I urge all persons to reach out to our Civil Society
Organizations and health professionals to encourage safe practices and
healthy life styles and help us to EQUALIZE awareness, access to treatment and opportunities for all.

Peace and love to all on this World AIDS Day 2022