World AIDS Day is observed on December 1 each year. It is a day of solidarity for people around the world who are affected by HIV.
This is a day for voices to unite by sharing experiences, remembering those lost, and standing together in the fight against HIV.
While great strides have been made over the four decades since the first known reported cases of AIDS, this disease remains a public health challenge.
World AIDS Day is an opportunity for every community and each individual to honor the more than 32 million people who have died worldwide from AIDS-related illness.
This year’s theme for World AIDS Day is “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV.”
It encourages people to unite globally to eliminate the disparities and inequities that create barriers to HIV testing, prevention, and access to HIV care.
First observed in 1988, World AIDS Day is a day to unite to help end HIV and remember those lost to AIDS-related illnesses.
“This World AIDS Day, we acknowledge the role equity plays in either the success or failure of our Nation’s HIV response. Providing equitable access to HIV testing, prevention, care, treatment, and research is key to ending the HIV epidemic,” said Harold Phillips, director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy. “The COVID-19 pandemic has tested our resolve and our ability to focus on ending the HIV epidemic. We encourage everyone to get an HIV test and to help us combat HIV-related stigma. As we work to implement the National HIV AIDS Strategy, this year’s theme reminds us that the time has come to act, and for all of us to put ourselves to the test of ending HIV.”
The Dorchester County Health Department’s HIV program offers prevention, education and testing.
Medical case management and support services are available to anyone who lives in Maryland and is diagnosed with HIV or AIDS. Case management helps individuals get timely access to health care, encourages medication compliance, and connects clients to other services.
Free, confidential HIV testing is available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and may be done on a walk-in basis.
For more information, go to our Reproductive and Sexual Health program page or call 410-228-3223.