The annual observation of National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day (NYHAAD) was started in 2013 to raise awareness of the impact of HIV/AIDS on young people and to bring the United States one step closer to an AIDS-free generation.
Although there has been a decrease in sexual risk behaviors among youth, those between the ages of 13-24 years old still account for 1 of 5 new HIV diagnoses in the United States. Schools all around the nation help promote healthy lifestyles and smart decision making to reduce the risk of HIV in youth, but here’s what you can do to help too:
- Educate yourself and others on HIV prevention, transmission and testing.
- Anyone between the ages of 13 and 64 years should get tested for HIV at least once.
To provide a safe and positive environment for young people, parents, schools, and communities must work together to educate others and raise awareness.