The Hong Kong AIDS Foundation expressed concern over the cumulative total of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections hit 7,345 in the second quarter of 2015 reported to the Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health.
Ms. Maple Lau, Deputy Director (Programmes) of the Foundation said the Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) or “cocktail therapy” can effectively control and delay the development of AIDS in people living with HIV (PLHIV) and lengthen their life expectancy. “The PLHIV are still facing various problems and pressures resulting from HIV infection, such as self-acceptance, emotional disturbance, careers, human and love relationships, which may affect their adherence to treatment and personal development.” Ms. Lau said.
The Hong Kong AIDS Foundation provides different types of services and activities to meet the needs of the PLHIV, including counselling service, life enhancement workshops, peer support group and PLHIV empowerment volunteer training. These interventions are designed with the objectives of assisting PLHIV to positively cope with long-term treatment; keep good drug compliance; tackle issues of sexual health, self-esteem, partner relationships and disclosure of HIV status; as a result to protect themselves against sexually transmitted diseases and, in consequence, to curb the spread of HIV in the community.
“A PLHIV Drop-in Centre has been recently established to provide a comfortable environment for the PLHIV where they can meet friends and chat casually. Interest classes will be organised for the service users to expand their support network and enrich their quality of life. In addition, the on-duty professional social workers will provide immediate counselling or advice to those who need it.” Ms. Lau added.
Interested parties and related organisations are welcome to call our Service Team on 2560 8528 for more details of the PLHIV Drop-in Centre.