“Only a truly effective, preventive HIV vaccine can limit, and eventually eliminate the threat of AIDS,” declared Bill Clinton, the then US President in a speech on May 18, 1997, sending ripples across the world highlighting the need for a vaccine to combat the spread of the disease.
Commemorating that day, World AIDS Vaccine Day is observed annually on May 18. Since there isn’t a cure for HIV at present, creating awareness and urgency to develop an effective vaccine is the significance of the day.
In Goa, the first case of HIV/AIDS was detected in 1987. Realising the challenges the infection posed, the Government of Goa initiated preventive measures, including screenings and ultimately established an autonomous body, the Goa State AIDS Control Society (GSACS), in April 1999, to control the escalating disease.
GSACS focuses on measures that will reduce the spread, that includes blood transfusion safety, counselling and testing, control STDs, care and support for people living with HIV/AIDS in the state.
As research for the vaccine continues, today antiretroviral medicines help terminate the virus from replicating itself, allowing the body to fight back.
As research for the vaccine continues, today antiretroviral medicines help terminate the virus from replicating itself, allowing the body to fight back.
But, part of that fight also includes mitigating the stigma and discrimination that remain pervasive.
“People living with HIV often face stereotypes and misconceptions, which include the false belief that HIV is always a result of irresponsible behaviour, leading to unjust judgment and exclusion,” says Founder of Human Touch Foundation, Peter Borges.
Established in 2009, the Human Touch Foundation is a youth-focused organisation that actively works towards promoting adolescent health and wellbeing, addressing critical issues such as HIV and substance abuse.
Speaking about the foundation’s key areas of work with children and adolescents living with HIV, Borges says, “The organisation focuses on promoting their resilience through mental healthcare services, livelihood programs and educational support, engaging these young individuals in various activities and therapies.”
Established in 2009, the Human Touch Foundation is a youth-focused organisation that actively works towards promoting adolescent health and wellbeing, addressing critical issues such as HIV and substance abuse.
But, despite the significant progress and favourable legislation for the welfare and protection of people living with HIV, Borges mentions that they often face deeply ingrained misconceptions that affect their social interactions and also limits their access to essential services and livelihood opportunities.
Recognised by UNAIDS for its practices, the foundation has emerged as a leading advocate for children and adolescents living with HIV in the state.
“Human Touch Foundation remains committed to breaking these barriers and creating a supportive network for adolescents living with HIV, ensuring they have the resources and resilience needed to thrive,” says Borges.
A vaccine may be the ultimate ammunition required to end the battle against HIV/AIDS.
And, while its development is still ongoing, maybe the combined efforts of containing the infection, timely treatment and concerted effort to educate the public, creating a conducive environment that will support the welfare of people living with HIV will help create a shield against the virus.
Reach out to Human Touch Foundation
CONTACT: +91 99237 00342
FACEBOOK/ INSTAGRAM: @humantouchgoa