Word of the Gay: "HIV-phobia"

"HIV-phobia" is the irrational fear or hatred of people living with HIV.

Organization Spotlight: Gay Mens Health Crisis

Gay Mens Health Crisis (GMHC) is the world’s first and leading provider of HIV/AIDS prevention, care and advocacy.

National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (9.27.09)

Today is the second annual National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day put together by the National Association of People With AIDS. NGMHAAD is an opportunity to focus resources and attention to the alarming rate of new infections among gay and bisexual men, particularly those in communities of color where resources are severely lacking.

NGMAHAD's goals are to 1) raise awareness about HIV/AIDS among gay men, 2) encourage HIV testing, early diagnosis and linkage to care, 3) promote better understanding of the complex factors that drive HIV transmission among gay men, and 4) obtain broad based support to acquire needed public and private resources and sound governmental policies to prevent new infections among gay men and to provide treatment for gay men living with HIV/AIDS.

* Fifty-three percent of new HIV infections occurred among men who have sex with men (MSM) in 2006

* From 2001 – 2006, men who have sex with men (MSM) across all racial and ethnic groups were the only transmission category with significant increases in HIV diagnoses

* HIV incidence has been increasing steadily among gay and bisexual men since the early 1990s, consistent with increases in risk behavior, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and HIV diagnoses among MSM

* Gay men comprise over half of the total number of total HIV/AIDS cases in the United States

* More than 500,000 gay men of all colors have died in the United States. (NAPWA).

Fact sheet for National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.

Help out by blogging, using widgets, or banners on your own site to promote the day.

Word of the Gay: "Gay Plague"

HIV/AIDS due to its high concentration in the LGBT community has been called the "gay plague" by anti-gay forces.

Swine Flu and The HIV Positive Community

The threat of a swine flu epidemic in the United States has many people living with HIV concerned about their health and safety. POZ and AIDSmeds check in with WHO and the CDC for the latest. In short: While there are reasons to be cautious, there’s no reason to panic.

What is swine flu?

Swine flu is a respiratory disease common among pigs. Though people are not usually susceptible to swine flu, animal-to-human transmission has been documented, notably among farmers working closely with pigs. What’s unique about the particular strain now under surveillance—dubbed swine influenza type A/H1N1—is its ability to spread from person to person.

A possible reason for this is the fact that pigs can be infected with not only swine influenza, but also flu viruses that affect humans and birds. The genetic material from multiple influenza viruses can then mix. Swine influenza typeA/H1N1, for example, contains genes from two strains of swine flu, one strain of bird flu and one strain of human influenza.

Is swine flu deadly?

All types of influenza that cause disease in humans can be deadly—approximately 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 people die from flu-related complications every year in the United States.

There is no reason to believe that the swine flu being reported is any more deadly than the regular seasonal flu. Of the 40 confirmed cases of swine flu in humans in the United States as of April 27, none have resulted in death. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), all cases reported in the United States thus far were associated with mild symptoms of illness, with only one patient requiring brief hospital care.

Is swine flu a threat to people living with HIV?

People living with HIV—as well as those with other chronic conditions, such as heart disease, asthma and diabetes—are believed to face an increased risk of serious influenza-related symptoms. According to the CDC, there is often a spike in the number of heart- and lung-related hospitalizations among people living with HIV during the winter influenza season as opposed to other times of the year. Studies also indicate that influenza symptoms might be prolonged and the risks of influenza-related complications—including death—are higher for certain HIV-positive people.

It is not clear that this strain of swine flu poses any more or less of a risk to people living with HIV. One theory: Given that, at least in Mexico, swine flu mimics what was seen during the 1918 influenza pandemic—it appears most serious among people between 18 and 35 years of age; those with healthy immune systems that become hyperactive in response to the virus and causes serious respiratory inflammation and disease—and may be less of a threat to those with compromised immune systems, such as people living with HIV. Unfortunately, it is not clear if this theory will hold up, given that many HIV-positive people are responding well to antiretroviral treatment, compounded by the possibility that a hyperactive immune response to HIV, not the virus itself, is responsible for HIV disease progression and a heightened risk of non-AIDS related health problems.

To help prevent seasonal flu, an annual vaccine is recommended for people with HIV to lower the risk of infection or serious disease if infection does occur. Unfortunately, a vaccine has not yet been developed against swine influenza A/H1N1. But people living with HIV can take steps to prevent infection.

How can I protect myself?

The CDC and other public health experts list fairly simple ways to prevent the spread of swine influenza A/H1N1. These include:

* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
* Very little is known about the benefits of wearing face masks to help control the spread of flu. Whenever possible, instead of relying on face masks, try avoiding close contact and crowded conditions—particularly if swine flu reaches pandemic status.
* No evidence shows that swine flu can be transmitted through food. Eating properly handled pork—cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees—is safe.
* If you come down with influenza-like symptoms, contact your doctor’s office immediately and stay home from work or school.

It is possible to rapidly develop a vaccine—if it’s needed. “We’ve identified the virus,” Richard Besser, MD, acting director of the CDC said during a White House press briefing on Sunday. “Should we decide to manufacture a vaccine, we can work toward that goal very quickly.” Though it would likely take at least four months to develop and mass produce a vaccine against H1N1, it could be available in time for a possible second wave of swine flu this coming winter.

Crossposted via Mike Tidmus.

Radio Host "Gunny" Inflames Anti-HIV & Homophobic Wound

Just a few days ago "Gunny" Bob Newman made the outrageous and unsubstantiated claim that allowing openly gay service members will increase HIV/AIDS in the military. GLAAD issued an action alert demanding that the radio station Mr. Newman works for KOA-AM and Clear Channel Communications reprimand him.

Colorado Media Matters points out that this time, Newman posted a "poll" on his KOA web page, asking listeners to choose between an “unmarried 25-year-old openly serving gay man” and a “25-year-old married heterosexual with two kids” as the source for a hypothetical battlefield blood transfusion.

The action alert is still alive and well. Please contact if you haven't done so, and please re-contact over the new appalling info if you have done so last time.

Contact:

KOA-AM

Mr. Lee Larsen
Vice President & General Manager
KOA-AM
Outlet Phone: (303) 713-8000
Email: leelarsen@clearchannel.com

Ms. Kristine Olinger
Director of AM Programming
KOA-AM
Outlet Phone: (303) 713-8000
Email: kristineolinger@clearchannel.com

Clear Channel Communications

Ms. Kathryn Johnson
Senior Vice President of Corporate Relations
Clear Channel Communications
Outlet Phone: (210) 822-2828
Email: kathrynmaysjohnson@clearchannel.com

Ms. Lisa Dollinger
Chief Communications Officer
Clear Channel Communications
Outlet Phone: (210) 822-2828
Email: lisacdollinger@clearchannel.com

If you choose to email Bob Newman himself he can be reached at bobnewman@850koa.com

Word of the Gay: "PWA"

"PWA" is an acronym that stands for People With Aids. While AIDS is not a gay disease, many people living with HIV/AIDS are members of the community, and our history will forever be stained by this epidemic.

World Aids Day (12-1-08)

World Aids Day is observed every December 1st. The AIDS epidemic has killed more than 25 million people around the world, including many dear and beloved members of our queer community. In addition an estimated 33 million people are living and suffering with HIV worldwide. Many lives have been claimed, many have been affected, and many people remain in the dark and do not know their status.

Click here for a national listing of HIV & STD testing resources.

It is vital to get tested regularly to ensure that you are not HIV positive, this very serious disease poses a risk not only to yourself but also to potential partners. It only takes one time to get the illness and there is no cure. Regardless of ones status it is imperative to always use protection.

HIV can be transmitted through anal, vaginal, and oral sex, and through the use of dirty and/or used needles. HIV can be transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal secretions, pre-ejaculate, and breast milk.

Please always make sure to use protection, via condoms, female condoms, and dental dams for oral-genital contact. No question is ever too stupid when it comes to dealing with sexual health, and please visit AVERT for comprehensive information on HIV/AIDS for specific countries, sexuality, and more.

On this day let us contemplate the millions of lives who have been and are currently affected by HIV/AIDS. Please use protection, educate yourself and educate others!

Stay safe, and please feel free to use the comment section to ask any questions, we are all here to help one another and no question can be deemed invalid when it comes to our sexual health.

Demand Investigation Over Guatemalan Attack on "Our Gay Beauty" HIV Prevention Event

"On October 18, 2008, two Guatemalan organizations—Amigos contra el Sida and Asociación Gay de Samayac—organized an event called “Our Gay Beauty” in Samayac Suchitepéquez. The event itself was focused on HIV prevention in the context of the campaign by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS. During the evening, someone threw a tear gas bomb into the space where the event was being held. While no one was seriously injured, people fainted, children became excessively tearful, and everyone was affected by the fumes. This is the second time this year that tear gas bombs have been used to attack events held by the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) community.

The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC) joins Colectivo Amigos Contra el Sida in requesting that you send emails or faxes asking Guatemalan authorities for a fair and thorough investigation of the case, and to make sure that similar attacks do not occur in the future."

Click here to send one email that will go to the Human Rights Associate Procurator, Departmental Governor of Suchitepequez, Public Ministry Office Attorney in Suchitepéquez, Deputy Carlos Enrique Bautista Godínez, Presidential Commissioner on Human Rights as well as a copy of your letter to IGLHRC and Colectivo Amigos Contra el SIDA.

US; PA: Learn how to engage Presidential Candidates with ACT UP

"Join ACT UP Philly for this training on "birddogging" - asking questions to
decision makers to get *real* answers, and real commitments, from them as a
way to win *real* policy changes that improve people's lives.

--
What if you were so powerful you could help save 33 million lives?

Until November 2008, Philadelphians are the most powerful people in the
world!

Learn how you can use your power and access to Presidential Candidates to
fight poverty and AIDS at home and abroad, and help 33 million people around
the world, and 1 million in the US, living with HIV/AIDS.

Date: Monday, Sept 8th

Time: 6:00pm

Location: ACT UP Philadelphia
St. Luke¹s Church Community Room
330 S. 13th St, Philadelphia

For more information, contact Kaytee Riek at 267.334.6984

Sponsored by:

ACT UP Philadelphia
Health GAP
Student Global AIDS Campaign" (Trans News)

Please Wrap it Before you Tap It!

French Government Unveils EDVIGE database

The government of France is planning on using a new database called EDVIGE which brings into serious question of whether this violates the civil liberties and privacy of citizens within the nation. The program is to be used by the French intelligence as well as police, however a great deal of personal information is being recorded by the database including but not limited to sexual orientation, HIV status, political identification, physical characteristics, ethnicity, moral/religious affiliation, employment, and location.

A large mobilization effort has begun calling for a withdrawal of the file. Thousands of people have signed online as well as in person petitions and 170 organizations, trade unions, and political parties have signed on demanding a stop to this program.

Below is an online petition from the Associative & Trade Union Network asking the French government to stop EDVIGE. The petition is in French, for our readers who are proficient go ahead and click.
EDVIGE petition (En Francais)

Otherwise you can fill out the petition via babelfish's website translater page below.
English Translated - EDVIGE Petition

Tell your Senator that NOW is the time to abolish the HIV Travel Ban!

"We are so close to ending the inhumane HIV Travel Ban, which prevents individuals living with HIV from traveling to or becoming citizens of the United States. By writing your lawmakers today, you can help ensure that they keep the removal of the ban in PEPFAR legislation, and help us end this unjust policy.

Tell your Senator that it is time for the U.S. to stop discriminating based on HIV status - they need to ensure the discriminatory HIV Travel Ban is abolished."

Please fill out the e-contact form below to message your rep:
http://www.hrcactioncenter.org/campaign/hivtravelban

HIV/AIDS is Still a Big Deal!

A great and moving video put out by the New York University and Public Health Solutions targeting the gay community.

Initial studies have found that after viewing the video people were more likely to disclose their HIV status and to get tested regularly.

Please support the project, and spread the video. This can save lives people!

http://www.hivbigdeal.org

Please Act Now to End the HIV Travel and Immigration Ban

Please join Gay Men's Health Crisis in fighting the HIV travel & immigration ban.

"What do terrorists, money launderers, child smugglers and people living with HIV have in common? They're all automatically banned from entering the United States.

After more than twenty years, this outrageous ban against HIV travelers and immigrants needs to go. Today all but 13 countries have recognized the injustice of such a ban: Iraq, China, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Sudan, Qatar, Brunei, Oman, Moldova, Russia, Armenia, South Korea and the United States. Tell your senators to listen to the facts and stand up for the rights of people with HIV."

Click here to contact your representatives!

Drop the Charges Against Gay Ugandan AIDS Activists!

"AIDS activists arrested last week for protesting the government’s unhealthy anti-gay policies: “The 3 Ugandan LGBT activists that were arrested at the HIV Implementers’ Meeting in Kampala on the 4th of June 2008, have been released on bail this morning. The charges against them HAVE NOT BEEN DROPPED. They have been charged with Criminal Trespass, under Section 302 of the Uganda Penal Code. All have pleaded “not guilty” and were released on a bail of 500,000 UGX ($310 USD)…The case was adjourned to the 20th of June 2008."

Click here to email the Ugandan President & Minister of Justice!

H/T to Queerty for the Alert

Demand Release of Gay Ugandans!

"KAMPALA, June 4 (Reuters) - Ugandan police arrested three gay rights demonstrators who stormed a major AIDS conference in Kampala on Wednesday in protest at the government's stance on homosexuality, which is banned in the east African nation.

Uganda's government said this week it would not focus any HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment programmes on homosexuals because it is short of funds.

Ugandan courts can punish homosexual acts with life in prison, and even "attempted" homosexuality can draw a jail term of seven years."

Please exert pressure to demand the release of these prisoners as well as tell the government it is time to decriminalize homosexuality.

Email: Contact Ugandan State House Officials

Please also use the Parliament of Uganda's Contact Form:
Click Here!

Ugandan Police Force:
LOCATION: Plot 1303 Sserumaga Road, Bukoto behind Kabira Country Club.

CONTACT:

TOLL FREE LINE: 0800200019
HOT LINE: 0414-595133
FAX LINE: 0414-533608

End The Travel Ban against HIV + European Union Visitors to U.S.

As noted at 247Gay:

"London’s Liberal Democrat MEP Baroness Sarah Ludford launched an online campaign this week to end the US policy of virtually refusing travel visas to people with HIV, a policy that has no public health rationale.
Currently the European Union is involved in visa negotiations with the US authorities to secure visa-free travel (visa waiver) for EU citizens from all of its 27 member states. In the US, gay rights campaigners are trying to get the ban lifted."

Sign the petition to lift the ban letting the Presidents of the European Commission, the European Parliament and the EU Council know this is discriminatory.

http://www.sarahludfordmep.org.uk/pages/endHIVdiscrimination.html

*Graphic courtesy of jonrawlinson of Creative Commons.