Кейптаун
Южная Африка
exact location unknown Памятник ВИЧ в больнице Стикланд с 1 декабрь 2023
без имен
Stikland Hospital commemorates World Aids Day [excerpt]
Health-care workers at Stikland Hospital in Bellville unveiled a monument as part of their commemoration of World Aids Day on Friday.

December 1 is an international day that raises awareness of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (Aids) pandemic, caused by the spread of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The day shows support for those living with HIV and Aids and mourns those who are among the more than 40 million people believed to have died from Aids-related illnesses since the start of the pandemic.

Sister Valerie Nel, a clinical coordinator at the hospital, said the monument symbolised the foundation built by their predecessors in creating awareness of the pandemic. “We take the theme, ‘let the communities lead’, to all our wards with screening, education and creating awareness for clients and staff. Our add-on to this is, ‘Where there is life, there is hope.’ The monument also symbolises hope.”

Health-care workers also planted a tree on the day.
“As the tree grows, it will symbolise the growth in awareness. The shade the tree offers symbolises the safe haven for all where we will endeavour to minimise stigma and discrimination experienced by those with HIV. This will also affirm our commitment to good patient experience of care,” she said.

In the provincial health department’s northern sub-district, at least 27 600 people are HIV positive and aware of their status, while 21 000 are on antiretroviral treatment (ARVs) and 17 000 have their virus suppressed, according to Dr Nosi Kalawe, a medical officer for the department. In the Tygerberg sub-district, 34 500 are HIV positive and aware of it, while 24 000 are on ARVs and 19 000 have their virus suppressed.

Photos © Stickland Hospital Northern News

4 декабрь 2023
Chandre Appels , Bellville