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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing December 1, 2018 as World AIDS Day (Supervisor Hannigan)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ___ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ___ No _ X_
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Department of Health and Social Services (H&SS) recommends that the Board adopt and present a resolution recognizing December 1, 2018 as World AIDS Day.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The Joint United Nations Program on AIDS (UNAIDS) has declared December 1, 2018 as World AIDS Day and acknowledges the millions of people living with HIV/AIDS, celebrate the lives of those who have lost their battle with HIV/AIDS, raise awareness about the global impact of HIV/AIDS, and applauds the advancements that are allowing more people with HIV/AIDS to live longer and healthier lives. This year’s theme is “Know Your Status” and the resolution will recognize that all citizens can take steps towards ending the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The theme, “Know Your Status” focuses on reinvigorating the world to stay on track to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030. UNAIDS recognizes that the decline in new HIV infections among adults has stalled. An estimated 1.8 million adults have become infected with HIV every year for the past five years worldwide. HIV Prevention efforts must be evaluated and improved to help identify HIV-positive individuals early, link them to medical care and supportive services, and decrease the spread of HIV in the community.
Solano County’s H&SS AIDS Community Education Program (ACEP), the local lead agency for HIV/AIDS prevention and HIV testing activities that occur in the County, recognizes that the spread of HIV/AIDS can only be controlled through: education and prevention activities; HIV testing that identifies infected individuals and links them to care; and access to health care services and treatment for those already infected. In support of the UNAIDS theme, the Solano AIDS Coalition will hold an event on December 1st with speakers, educational information, and a candlelight vigil to honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. The event is open to the public and will be located on Georgia Street in Vallejo. Solano County Public Health will offer education and outreach services at this event. Additionally, Solano Community College will host World AIDS Day activities throughout the day, including displaying the Solano County AIDS quilt.
In addition to the 2018 World AIDS Day activities, year-round confidential free HIV testing is offered to all through an “On Demand” testing program. Clients can call or text to make an appointment for a free, rapid, and confidential test. H&SS estimates that AIDS Community Education Program will provide outreach services for HIV testing and education to approximately 2000 individuals this year.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing the agenda item are nominal and absorbed by the department’s FY2018/19 Adopted Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2018/19 Adopted Budget.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt this resolution recognizing World AIDS Day. This is not recommended because it provides an opportunity to increase awareness on the risk of HIV/AIDS and the importance of getting tested.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
H&SS would like to recognize the work of the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Questioning (LGBTQ) Alliance, The Solano Pride Center, Planned Parenthood of Northern California, Community Medical Centers, and the Solano AIDS Coalition for partnering with the County for World AIDS Day activities.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION