HIV Vaccine Awareness Day

[DarklingAlice]

The American NIAID has declared May, 18th, HIV Vaccine Awareness Day. This is especially important this year as the world financial crisis is diverting resources from the fight on HIV. The lack of resources coupled with the self-interest of many countries has led to a general dip in the support necessary to continue a strong fight against the global problem of HIV.

Wherever you are in the world, please do not be deluded into thinking that viruses respect national borders or that this is not your problem. Diseases of this nature are a problem for our entire species and it has only been through constant dedication and effort that the HIV pandemic has not become worse. If you can think of anything you can do to aid in the fight against the disease (either at home or abroad) and the continuing search for prophylaxis and a cure, please do not hesitate.

Today's Diane Rehm show has some details on the current crisis and interviews with some of the most prominent specialists in the field. Well worth a listen.

[mystictiger]

I remember feeling so sad to read of yet another HIV vaccine researcher who was so eager to test out their prototype... and then contracted it. Urgh. Brave, brave people.

[Acinonyx]

remember feeling so sad to read of yet another HIV vaccine researcher who was so eager to test out their prototype... and then contracted it.

Oh, that is terrible. :(

It's impossible to over-stress the fact how many lives and how much life-quality could be saved with a good-working HIV vaccine. It's a bit of a war of its own kind and I am happy people are willing to take it on.