THE EDITOR, Sir:
The epidemic of HIV/AIDS infections and the stigma that society has attached to this disease has caused a tremendous problem in today's society and signals the downfall of future generations.
HIV/AIDS, as everyone is aware, is a deadly disease and because of this, society fears to interact with persons affected by this illness, and even refuses to co-operate by giving information to relevant authorities or the health organisation in charge of carrying out surveys on HIV/AIDS victims. They do this because they fear that persons in society, knowing that they knew or know someone with this virus, will stigmatise them as well.
I strongly feel that the stigma that society puts on HIV/AIDS victims should stop, and my reason for this is, that these persons affected by this virus are human beings just like anyone else, and at a time like this in their lives, they need people the most for love and support and to allow them to feel as if they are wanted in society.
We all have to realise that this disease is impartial towards your socio-economic status and every and anyone is liable to come in contact with this virus, so it is our responsibility to help in the fight against AIDS and try to give support to those living with it because they have limited time with us.
I am, etc.,
SHEYREL NEMBHARD
Savannah District
Hayes P.O.
Clarendon
