Getting to Zero is TNs Theme

TIRUCHY/CHENNAI: ‘Getting to Zero’, the new theme of the Tamil Nadu government for HIV/AIDS, will be officially declared on World AIDS Day that falls on Thursday. It refers to the goal of  bringing down new HIV infections and AIDS related deaths to zero and reducing acts of discrimination against people living with HIV.Spreading awareness about the condition plays a key role in preventing discrimination. Those living with HIV/AIDS will be open about their condition only if they do not face discrimination. Then only the objective could be achieved. “Awareness creation will go a long way in achieving the theme,” said Selva Kumar, Supervisor, District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit. The Red Ribbon clubs have made a huge impact. In Tiruchy district, the 101 colleges have formed such clubs. Bike Rally OrganisedTo mark World AIDS Day, the Indian Community Welfare Organisation with the support of Rotary International District 3230 and Reach organised a campaign on a theme ‘Getting to Zero, Zero New HIV Infections, Zero Discrimination, Zero AIDS Related Deaths, Zero HIV-TB co-infection and Zero Violence’ at a city mall in Chennai on Wednesday.A bike rally by ‘Metal Men’ that was flagged off  followed by games and contests. About 100 students participated in the games.