HIV/AIDS – 2007 Theme

The theme for the 2007 Australian World AIDS Day campaign is HIV/AIDS: Prevention is everybody’s business. The theme was chosen as a strong reminder that HIV/AIDS remains a serious disease for which there is still no cure, and prevention remains the best defence against its spread.

HIV is a virus that can be contracted by both men and women, of any age, and any demographic. While many effective treatments (anti-retrovirals) are now available, people with HIV/AIDS continue to experience a variety of health problems.

The Australian World AIDS Day campaign is an important imitative that supports implementation of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy – Revitalising Australia’s Response 2005-2008. The goal of the Strategy is to reduce HIV transmission and minimise the personal and social impacts of HIV infection.

The 2007 Australian World AIDS Day campaign aims to increase knowledge about the impact of HIV/AIDS both globally and locally. The key messages are inclusive of all Australians and are designed to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS as an issue that affects everyone. Therefore prevention is everybody’s responsibility.

The World AIDS Day campaign also aims to inform people about the important care and support services that are available for people affected by HIV, and to emphasise that people with HIV/AIDS need encouragement, understanding and acceptance.

World AIDS Day Facts

• More than 190 countries around the world participate in World AIDS Day each year.
• Not all people who are infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) will develop AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). However, HIV can lead to AIDS.
• The red ribbon has been the international symbol of HIV and AIDS awareness for 15 years. All money raised from the sale of ribbons goes towards support services for people living with HIV/AIDS. Ribbons are available from a range of locations, including AIDS Councils, in each state and territory.