Creating awareness among young people
The global and national campaigns aim to put children and young people at the centre of the global agenda. And to stop the spread of the disease, reduce its impact and help those already suffering.
The Unicef global campaign, UNITE FOR CHILDREN, UNITE AGAINST AIDS, aims to protect, care for and support children affected by HIV/AIDS. It will unite UN agencies, national governments, the international community and civil society, to achieve an impact. It will do this by including children, encouraging a focus on children and accelerating responses to the needs of children. There are 4 issues of focus:
Prevent mother-to-child transmission
Most of the half million children under 15 who die each year from AIDS-related illnesses become infected from their mothers. Yet less than 10% of pregnant women have access to treatment to prevent transmission.
Provide paediatric treatment
Less than 5% of HIV positive children in need of paediatric AIDS treatment are receiving it. Consequently they are likely to die from infections. Children need appropriate treatment and care.
Prevent infection among young people
The only way to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS is through protection and prevention. However, studies around the world, including Uzbekistan, show that many young people have no idea how HIV is transmitted or how to protect themselves from the virus. Young people need help and advice, and youth-friendly services.
Protect and support children affected by HIV/AIDS
Children are permanently scarred by the horror of seeing a parent ill or dying. Then they suffer again from having to take on tasks such as caring for a parent or for brothers and sisters, generating income or providing food. Less than 10% of orphans and vulnerable children are receiving public support. They need services such as health and education, and protection by government in the form of improved policy and legislation.
The world must act now to put children at the centre of the HIV/AIDS agenda and ensure an AIDS-free generation.
