World AIDS Vaccine Day is observed on May 18 every year to educate people and communities about the importance and need for HIV vaccine in preventing AIDS and HIV infections. The day also recognizes professionals who are working together in development of vaccine against AIDS. This day is also known as HIV Vaccine Knowledge Day. World AIDS Vaccine Day was first observed on May 18, 1998.
Currently, there is no vaccine against HIV infections and to treat those who have it. Multiple researches are still going on to develop one.
According to the World Health Organization, AIDS has claimed approximately 32 million lives till now and has affected 75 million people across the globe. It is because of these reasons that HIV vaccine awareness day or World AIDS Vaccine Day is observed.
Aim of World AIDS Vaccine Awareness Day
There are two primary goals of this day:
1. To honour medical professionals, researchers, volunteers and other professionals who are working day and night for development of AIDS vaccines.
2. It also aims to educate people about the importance of vaccine that can help save many lives.
The campaign is led by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious disease.
Also read: How Does AIDS Affect Our Health & How To Prevent It
About HIV
HIV targets the immune system and weakens people's defence systems against infections and some types of cancer. The virus destroys and impairs function of immune cells.
Also read: How Does One Get HIV, Early Symptoms, Facts And Figures
HIV/AIDS: Transmission and risk factors
Exchange of body fluids like blood, breast milk, semen and vaginal infections can lead to transmission of HIV. The infection can be transmitted from mother to her child during pregnancy and delivery. HIV does not spread through day-to-day contact like shaking hands, sharing personal objects, food or water.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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