World Aids Day

On Saturday, December 1st, Manchester City Council is commemorating World Aids Day by encouraging young people to change their lifestyle to protect themselves against HIV/AIDS.

There will be an information stall on Albert Square Christmas Market, workshops for young people, a World Aids Day leaflet distributed with details about HIV and AIDS, bell ringing on Friday, 30th November at midday, a large red ribbon displayed on the Town Hall and 20,000 red ribbons distributed to front line staff. There will also be a candlelit vigil in Sackville Park at 5.45pm and a vigil at St. Ann's Church, St. Ann's Square, at 7pm led by the Bishop of Manchester.

HIV is the fastest growing serious health condition in the UK. It is estimated that 70,000 people in the UK are living with HIV, a third of whom are undiagnosed. The two groups most at risk are men who have had sex with men and migrants from regions of the world where HIV is common, such as sub-Saharan Africa. Manchester, through the World Aids Day theme of leadership, is emphasising the risk to young people and encouraging them to protect themselves against HIV.

For the first time since the global epidemic began more than 25 years ago, newly diagnosed cases of HIV have declined, from 7,900 in 2005 to an estimated 7,800 last year (2006). Official figures show that new infections of HIV have fallen in the UK despite worsening sexual health among young people.

Councillor Sheila Newman, Executive Member for Children's Services said: "These figures are still worryingly high and it is vital that all young people know to practice safe sex to reduce their risk of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. This World Aids Day we emphasise the need to reinforce this message for all young people whether gay or straight."

Manchester City Council is emphasising through its workshops and information materials that the best way to protect yourself from contracting an STI including HIV is by practising safe sex, this means that a condom should always be used with all sexual partners.

Media contact:

Juliet Appleby, tel: 0161 234 3237