Every year, on 1 December, the world observes World AIDS Day. It is a day to think about the people living with HIV, to remember those who have died and to remind ourselves that awareness can save lives. In Bangladesh, this day often passes unnoticed. But it should not. 

This year WHO and other communities will come together to observe this day under the theme “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”. Political leadership, international cooperation and human rights-centred approaches are going to be organized in the hopes to  end AIDS by 2030.

AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. It happens when a person has been living with HIV, a virus that slowly weakens the bodys defence system. When the immune system becomes too weak, the person cannot fight infections like before. Hiv spreads mainly through unprotected intercourse, sharing needles or bodily fluids and from mother to child during birth or breastfeeding. It does not spread through casual touch, sharing food or sitting next to someone, as many people unfortunately still believe. 

In Bangladesh, many people still feel shy or afraid to talk about HIV. Even though the estimated number of People Living With HIV is 15143 according to a survey conducted in 2022. People believe it only affects “certain groups”. These ideas are wrong. Anyone can get HIV if they do not know how to protect themselves. Lack of awareness is sometimes the main reason.

People rarely hear proper information in school or at home. But we have to understand that HIV is not a death sentence. With proper medicine, a person with HIV can live a long and healthy life. The medicine helps the virus stay under control and reduces the chance of infecting others. Early testing is the key. But due to stigma, people often test too late.

Yes the number of people living with HIV in Bangladesh is lower than many countries. But the numbers are slowly rising each year. Nowadays many new cased are reported in certain regions of Bangladesh. These reports are mainly met with criticism and sarcastic taunts by the people in social media. 

But we must talk about HIV openly. We must treat people with kindness, not judgement. If a friend, neighbour or family member has HIV, they need support, not judgement. Keeping distance from them does not protect us. Knowledge does. 

World AIDS Day is not only for posters, speeches and article like these. It is a reminder that awareness saves lives. As Bangladesh is growing and changing, we must build a society where people are informed, safe and respected.

Dont fear AIDS, learn about it.