Kathmandu is marking World Aids Day with a flash-mob in the capital’s core, Basantapur. The 1st of December is observed as World Aids Day dedicated to raising awareness about AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS.
Today also marks the first day of Maneesh Harayeko Suchana, a play centred on an LGBTQ+ theme running at Mandala Theatre Nepal for a week. Dates and times can be found on the poster below.
National Center for AIDS and STD Control estimates that 30,000 people in Nepal are infected by HIV by the end of 2022. In Nepal, one person is infected with HIV every day, it said. People living with HIV can access anti-retroviral treatment/therapy (ART) in Nepal, consisting of a combination of HIV medicines. Whilst ART cannot cure HIV, it can help people reduce their virus count to ‘undetectable’ status. Once undetectable, the virus is ‘untransmittable’. U=U.
The best way to protect yourself from HIV is by getting tested today. There are free services such as Mero Sathi where you can get tested for HIV. You can also visit Mero Sathi to inquire about PrEP medication. PrEP is a medicine people at risk for HIV take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. PrEP can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout your body.
Visit MeroSathi today via this link!
For more information regarding HIV/AIDS in Nepal and how to get help, please visit the blogpost below.
