Know About World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day takes place each year on 1st December. It is an opportunity for people to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness.

The human immunodeficiency virus classically known as HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, which can further lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), if not treated with the right medical support. Within a few weeks of HIV infection, symptoms like fever, sore throat, and fatigue can occur. Then the disease is usually asymptomatic until it further progresses to AIDS. Symptoms of AIDS include rapid weight loss, fever or night sweats, sore mouth, fatigue, and recurrent infections.

Governments and healthcare professionals still have to face challenges related to HIV tests, including resistance from patients due to discrimination and stigma. Many people across the globe are still reluctant to get an HIV test done. We must ensure that people who are infected with HIV and still unaware of their status get the test done at the earliest and are linked to healthcare and prevention services.

Well, right nutrition plays a huge role in the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS. Here, we have some points people can keep in mind while aiming at a healthy diet that can boost their immune health and help them effectively manage HIV/AIDS.

• Consume adequate calories throughout the day to maintain a healthy weight: Those with HIV/AIDS need to adjust their calorie intake depending on how they respond to treatment. Some people may require more calories and protein in their diet compared to those who do not have HIV/AIDS.
• Protein is a must in every meal: Protein is important because it is needed to make, repair and maintain cells in the body. It also plays a key role in managing the immune functions of the body. Some of the good protein sources include lean meats, poultry, fish, low-fat dairy foods, eggs, beans, and lentils.
• Include a variety of vitamin and mineral-rich foods: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean protein contain vitamins and minerals that can help the body function properly. Zinc and vitamin C are majorly used by the immune system and iron and vitamin B12 are essential for healthy blood cells. Including a variety of nutrient-rich foods can help meet these needs adequately.
• Be vigilant about food safety: Those with HIV/AIDS are more vulnerable to food poisoning and infections because HIV weakens the immune system. Practicing food safety tips helps decrease your risk of getting infections easily. Strictly avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, fish, and eggs to avoid infections; only consume pasteurized milk or cheese; wash fruits and vegetables and use separate knives and cutting boards for raw meats and produce.

Over to you:

World AIDS Day is an opportunity to show solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV/AIDS all across the globe. According to a data in 2017, 79% of people living with HIV were aware of their status, of which 71% were on antiretroviral treatment (ART). The proportion of people on ART who are virally suppressed is not reported. India’s HIV epidemic is driven by sexual transmission, which accounted for 86% of new infections in 2017/2018. The three states with the highest HIV prevalence, Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, are in the east of the country. With continuous efforts and creating awareness, India can reduce the cases of HIV/AIDS and lead a healthy life!