World AIDS Day 2025

 

📢 Key Messages for HIV Awareness and Control in Cebu

These messages focus on life-saving treatment, access to services, and overall wellness.

1. Treatment Works: HIV is Not a Death Sentence

 * Antiretroviral Vials (ARVs) are provided for free by the Philippine government through DOH-accredited HIV Treatment Hubs in Cebu (e.g., Kaambag Clinic at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center).

 * Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U): Once a person living with HIV (PLHIV) consistently takes their ARVs and achieves an undetectable viral load, they cannot sexually transmit HIV to their partner.

 * The Goal: With consistent treatment, PLHIV can live long, healthy, and productive lives, and prevent new infections.

2. Know Your Status: Testing is the Gateway to Care

 * Testing is the First Step: HIV counseling and testing is the crucial first step to accessing comprehensive treatment, care, support, and prevention services.

 * Confidential and Accessible: Centers and community-based organizations offer free, confidential, and safe testing and counseling.

 * KAAMBAG Clinic is open on Mondays, Tuesday, Thursdays, Fridays from 6:00AM to 10:00 PM.

 * Prevention and Protection: For those who test negative but are at high risk, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is available in Cebu's treatment hubs and clinics as an effective prevention method.

 * A Call to Action: Cebu officials and health advocates are normalizing testing, urging Cebuanos to get tested and integrate it into routine health check-ups.

3. Live Long and Strong: Healthy Lifestyle and Adherence

 * Adherence is Key: Taking ARVs daily, as prescribed, is the most important factor in achieving an undetectable viral load and maintaining good health.

 * Holistic Wellness: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle (good nutrition, exercise, and mental health support) is vital for PLHIV to live long, productive, and fulfilling lives.

 * Erase Stigma: The commitment to a healthy life and the success of U=U helps in reducing the stigma and discrimination that remain significant barriers to prevention and treatment in Cebu.