THE CITY OF OKLAHOMA – The impact of the HIV epidemic has been profound, affecting individuals, families and entire communities across the world. In Oklahoma, an estimated 8,800 people are HIV positive and approximately 17% (1 in 6) are unaware of their status.
HIV has been a recognized virus for over 40 years and is now a manageable chronic disease thanks to advances in HIV treatment and prevention.
In Oklahoma, the OSDH Rapid Start program provides equitable access to prevention, care, and PrEP medications to clients in rural areas. Additionally, the program has successfully retained over 90% of its clients in the PrEP program, with no results of seroconversion to HIV-positive status for clients taking PrEP medications.
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a medication available to prevent HIV-negative people from contracting HIV.
This year’s theme, “35th World AIDS Day: Remember and Get Involved,” honors those we have lost to HIV/AIDS.
Remembering the lives lost not only honors their memory, but also highlights the urgency of the commitment to end the HIV epidemic.
“Remembrance gives us strength and determination to redouble our efforts in the fight against the disease and to provide support to people living with HIV,” said Terrainia Harris, Director of Sexual Health and Harm Reduction. at the OSDH. “It’s time to remember the importance of compassion, empathy and solidarity in the face of adversity. »
The other aspect of this year’s theme, “Getting Involved,” emphasizes the collective responsibility to act.
Individuals can make a difference, whether by working to improve equitable access and end disparities in prevention, care and treatment; promote science education and awareness; or supporting organizations that work tirelessly to serve people at risk of and living with HIV. It will take a whole-of-society response to end the epidemic.
To learn more about ending the HIV epidemic in Oklahoma and available resources, visit: Ending HIV Oklahoma and Hepatitis Planning Council (OHHPC) And Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States (EHE) | CDC
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) protects and improves public health through its local health service system and strategies focused on disease prevention. OSDH provides technical support and guidance to 68 Oklahoma county health departments, as well as guidance and consultation to the two independent city and county health departments of Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Learn more about Oklahoma.gov/health.
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