The increase in HIV infection in young people is the theme for today's World AIDS Day. According to the Dublin AIDS Alliance, people between the ages of 10 and 24 now account for 50 per cent of all new infections.
Alliance spokeswoman Ms Shaz Oye said the latest global statistics from the World Health Organisation showed that 16,000 people become infected with HIV each day. The theme for today, Young People: Force for Change, was prompted by the disturbing level of infection among the young people, she said.
According to the alliance, there has been a sustained rise in the reported number of infections in Ireland. The latest Department of Health figures show that heterosexuals now account for the highest rate, 35 per cent, of new infections.
Ms Deirdre Seery, director of the Cork-based The Centre for Sexual Health, said there has been a steady increase in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among young people. A young people's sexual health and drugs helpline was started by the centre yesterday.
"HIV and STDs are preventable diseases and the helpline will assist young people to understand risks, how to protect themselves and be a listening ear for people who may be feeling pressurised into behaving in a way in which they are uncomfortable," she said. The helpline number is 021276676.
Mr Paddy Connolly, director of Cairde, which works with people infected and affected by AIDS, said it was concerned about the lack of representation of HIV positive people on the national AIDS strategy committee; out of 28 places just two were set aside for such people. Cairde yesterday launched a new website, www.cairde.ie.