Friday was observed as World AIDS Day and involved several activities worldwide to promote awareness about the virus.

The virus presently affects some 40 million people worldwide. In Jamaica, an estimated 25,000 people are living with the disease, 15,000 of which do not know their status.

It is an alarming number which could quickly increase if enough is not done to curb the spread of the virus. Every man, woman and child needs to learn about AIDS and what causes it.

Everyone also needs to know how to prevent it and treat people living with it. HIV/AIDS is one of several infections threatening to wipe out the human race, but it is one that can be stopped if everyone gets involved in the fight.

How many persons are using condoms, abstaining from sex, or even sticking to one faithful partner to protect themselves? How many of us are contributing time and resources towards fighting HIV/ AIDS in Jamaica?

And for those who say they have no resources, how many are simply being a friend of someone who has the virus? HIV/AIDS will not go away simply because we want it to, it is getting strong with each passing day, taking lives and threatening everyone in the world.

Every Jamaican needs to get involved in the attempts to curb the spread of the virus. Tell your friends about the disease, get tested and know your status so you can get treatment. Do all you can to rid the world of the dreaded virus.