World AIDS Vaccine Day is annually observed across the globe on 18th May to create awareness about the requirement of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) vaccines to prevent HIV infection and AIDS.
- The day aims to educate the general public about AIDS, encourage the researchers and ensure the participation of the general public in the vaccination drive.
- The observance is led by the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).
Objective:
- To honour the healthcare workers, scientists, and volunteers who have dedicated their lives to create an effective AIDS vaccine.
- To focus on the importance of vaccines against HIV.
Background:
i.The idea of the HIV Vaccine Awareness Day originated from the commencement speech of the former US President Bill Clinton at the Morgan State University on 18th May 1997.
ii.The first World AIDS Vaccine Day was observed across the globe on 18th May 1998.
About HIV:
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system of the body, which leads to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) if not treated properly.
Origin: the HIV infection originated from the Chimpanzee in Central Africa.
Stages: The people with HIV progress through 3 stages,
- Acute HIV Infection
- Chronic HIV Infection
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
HIV & AIDS in India:
i.The first AIDS case in India was detected in 1986 following which the National AIDS Committee was constituted under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
ii.The First National AIDS Control Programme (1992 – 1999) in India was launched in 1992 and the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) was established to implement the programme.
About National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID):
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases traces its origins to a small laboratory established in 1887
Director– Anthony S. Fauci
Headquarters– Maryland, United States
