World AIDS Day

December 1 is World AIDS Day. The website for the day focuses more on the red ribbon and doesn't make much mention of the facts so I will do it for them.
-25 million people have died from complications related to AIDS since its discovery in 1981.
-It is estimated that 40.3 million people are infected with HIV and 4.9 million people were infected in 2005 this year.
-3.1 million people have died this year from complications due to AIDS.

Some good news to report is that HIV infection rates are falling in sub Saharan African nations according to a UN commissioned survey. More good news is that the HIV vaccine is in Phase II of clinical trials and the results seem promising. More information about the vaccine here.

Remember to get tested frequently and to practice safer sex all the time. It only takes one encounter to contract HIV so be consistent when practicing safer sex. If you know someone that is living with HIV/AIDS take them out for dinner or lunch, call and say hi, or just give them a hug.

AIDS is something that we should be aware of every day and don't forget its not about sporting a red ribbon. It's about people.