Health Minister: Education about AIDS to combat exclusion
On the occasion of World AIDS Day, Health Minister Manne Lucha (Greens) speaks out in favor of education as well as prevention and care services. "Education is the best protection against exclusion and discrimination and promotes positive coexistence without prejudice," said Lucha on Thursday. World AIDS Day is this Friday (December 1).
"The figures underline the continued need for rapid diagnosis and treatment in order to break chains of infection as early as possible and thus prevent new infections," said Lucha. By the end of August, 271 HIV infections had been reported to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) in Baden-Württemberg this year. In 2022 as a whole, there were 438 - a record high since 2010. In the pandemic years, the numbers had fallen significantly - to 250 in 2021 and 298 in 2020.
The abbreviation HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. Infection is possible via blood and semen, among other things. The virus, discovered in 1983, damages the body's own defenses. This makes it increasingly difficult for the body to fight pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. If an HIV infection is not recognized and treated in time, the immunodeficiency disease AIDS develops.
The state has increased its funding for Aids-Hilfe Baden-Württemberg to 1.2 million euros this year and 1.2 million euros next year.
"Effective education about HIV and its associated diseases, such as AIDS, is crucial in combating misconceptions and stigma, aligning with the Health Minister's stance on exclusion and discrimination."
"Regular health screenings and timely treatment for HIV infections are essential in managing diseases and reducing the risk of transmitting them, as highlighted by the increasing number of HIV cases reported annually."
Source: www.dpa.com
