World AIDS Day 2021

World AIDS Day takes place on 1 December each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day.

This year in Grampian we are celebrating World AIDS Day by raising awareness of how far we have come in the efforts to treat and prevent HIV. One of the biggest breakthroughs in the past few years has been the discovery that effective treatment for HIV can reduce the viral load to such a low level in the blood that it can’t be passed on. This is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).

Within the Aberdeen City Vaccination Centre we have established a stall (on exit) with information on HIV, free condoms and red ribbons. In addition, there will be the offer of Postal Dry Blood Spot Testing Kits.

A similar promotional stand with information, free condoms and ribbons is being made accessible within the Aberdeen Health and Social Care Village where sexual health services is situated.

Our third sector partner Four Pillars are running a remembrance service, hosted by the Rev. Scott Rennie at 6pm at their headquarters on Regent Quay.

In Moray, the University of Highlands and Islands and Moray College will be showcasing the OPVG messages on screens within their establishments. Information will also be made available at vaccine centres in Moray.

For more information and where to get tested visit

NHS Grampian Sexual Health Service:  www.grampiansexualhealthservices.com

Local patient forum and peer support service - Our Positive Voice (Grampian) ourpositivevoice.org

Up to date information about HIV in Scotland -  HIV Scotland: www.hiv.scot