World AIDS Day, December 1, which also launches the start of Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week in Canada, is a time for reflection: on what we have achieved with regard to the national and global response to HIV, and what we still must achieve.
This year’s World AIDS Day comes in the midst of another global epidemic, COVID-19. The public health response to these epidemics is linked. The COVID-19 pandemic is threatening access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment and care. And without strategies to meet these needs, we may see a resurgence of HIV that would threaten our public health response to COVID-19.
Remember, testing, condoms and access to treatment are an essential part of HIV prevention. You can still get tested for HIV and other STIs during COVID-19. You can also pick up free condoms anytime you need them. Teen Clinics, health centres and nursing stations are still open and ready to help you! Although some are asking that you call ahead so that they can keep their waiting room well spaced out, they are still offering all of their usual services. Find your nearest Teen Clinic at teenclinic.ca. Nine Circles is also still providing testing and treatment support, but currently asking folks to book their appointments ahead by calling 204-940-6000.
If you want to learn more about HIV/AIDS SERC MB is offering a free webinar for World AIDS Day on “HIV/AIDS and Live Experiences During a Global Pandemic” from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Visit serc.mb.ca to learn more
One of the Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network (CAAN) Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week (AAAW) events includes the webinar “Pathways to a Promising Future.” To learn more or to register click this link
