Stigma for HIV refers to unfavourable or irrational attitudes, behaviour and judgments for or towards people living with HIV. It can adversely affect the health and well-being of such individuals by stopping them from obtaining their HIV status, getting medication or being treated. HIV-stigma can also affect people who are at risk of HIV by preventing them from searching for resources and tests to avoid HIV and communicating about safer sex choices with their sex partners openly. Breaking down the stigma of HIV is a vital aspect of ending the HIV outbreak.
Therefore as a joint initiative the Rotaract clubs of Cinnamon Gardens, ICBT and Wellawatte decided to create awareness through a PR campaign by changing the profile pictures with a frame designed for the project across all our social media platforms as Phase 01 and conduct a panel discussion to raise awareness on the taboo topic of HIV/AIDS because there is a huge stigma and misinformation on the topic HIV as Phase 02. The major ideology of this project is that the needs and vulnerabilities of people living with HIV/AIDS, their family and friends, populations and vulnerable groups are understood. Dr. Thanuja Peiris, who is consultant Venerelogist provided the needful information on HIV/AIDS to all the members who participated on this day.