STD Clinic Singapore

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a viral infection that weakens a person’s immune system by attacking the cells that help the body fight infections and diseases. Once classified as a pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO), HIV is easily transmissible. It is spread through contact with another person’s specific bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, and breastmilk. The most common transmission methods include unprotected sex and the sharing of needles and other contaminated medical equipment.

There are approximately 38 million people in the world who have been infected with the virus. However, numerous unreported cases are possible as some continue to avoid seeking the help they need. One of the main reasons they refuse to schedule an HIV test is due to the stigmatisation commonly associated with this virus.

This fear has become especially rampant in our digital age, where misinformation and discrimination are prevalent. These elements have only lead to the virus’s further spread as some continue to fear the hypothetical repercussions of reaching out. Therefore, everyone has a crucial role to play in combating the spread of HIV. As members of society, we can each do our part to help spread awareness about the virus and end its stigma.

1. Educate and inform yourself

There is still plenty of misinformation about HIV. These myths and misconceptions only further people’s misunderstanding about the virus. To protect themselves, some continue to shun HIV-positive patients, fearing they may get infected. Their actions only further discourage patients from seeking the help and support they need.

For example, many still widely assume that HIV can be spread through kissing, touching, or sharing a utensil with an HIV-positive patient. However, this misconception is unfounded as the virus is not transmissible via saliva. In addition, not every affected patient is infectious. Those who seek effective treatment can successfully suppress the viral load in their bodies. If the viral load remains undetectable, they cannot transmit the virus. But, they are still required to take their medication regularly to maintain their condition.

You can do your part to raise awareness for HIV by helping to prevent the spread of myths and misconceptions surrounding the virus. It is advisable to read up on the virus’s infection, modes of transmission, and possible treatment methods. Additionally, you should fact check your sources to ensure it is not a misconceived notion. Only by educating yourself are you able to educate others in turn.

2. Empower HIV patients

The words we use and how we convey them play vital roles in how the other party interprets our intentions. This logic also applies to any discussions about HIV. Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to facilitate an honest and open discussion about the virus. Doing so can help to reduce the discrimination that many HIV-positive patients experienced.

You can do your part to stop the stigma surrounding HIV by being intentional and thoughtful when choosing your words. Try to avoid using terms such as victims and sufferers, as it only promotes the idea that they are powerless. It will help if you are also mindful of your tone when addressing them.

3. Promote regular HIV testing

Many people are afraid or ashamed to get tested for HIV because of the stigma associated with the virus. This fear may reduce the number of reported cases as these people refuse to undergo HIV testing. Since they are unaware of their condition, they may continue to spread the virus unknowingly. These elements combined make it challenging for health organisations to diagnose, treat, and stop the virus in various countries.

Promoting HIV testing is a necessary step in combating the spread of the virus and the stigma that comes with it. Thankfully, there are various STD clinics in Singapore that offer such services to the public. Going for regular testing and encouraging your friends and relatives to do the same is an excellent way to raise awareness for the cause.

Conclusion

Educating others and promoting open, honest discussions about HIV are fundamental steps toward ending the stigma that some still have towards HIV-positive patients. If you want to help end this discrimination, you should educate yourself, learn how to empower others, and constantly encourage those you know to go for regular testing.

At Elyon Clinic, we provide various sexual health check-ups and other essential healthcare services. If you are looking to arrange an HIV screening, don’t hesitate to contact us at 6802 7208.