Statement from Rear Adm. Michael Weahkee on World AIDS Day

On World AIDS Day Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  , we show support for people living with HIV, their families, allies, and caregivers, and remember those who have lost their lives to HIV. We also celebrate the advances that have led to successful HIV treatment regimens, prevention strategies, and improved care. Because of these advances, HIV has transformed into a manageable chronic condition. Today, people with HIV have the opportunity to live long, healthy lives.

The 2020 World AIDS Day theme is “Ending the HIV Epidemic: Resilience & Impact.” The IHS continues to work to end the HIV epidemic in Indian Country [PDF] as part of Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  . These efforts include online training modules , such as the PrEP Navigator Training for Community and Public Health Staff Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  to increase knowledge and awareness of the benefits of PrEP medications. These once-per-day pills have been shown to reduce the risk of HIV transmission through sex by as much as 99%.

Visit https://www.ihs.gov/hivaids to learn more about collaborative efforts across the Indian health system to end the HIV epidemic.