
The Department of Health (DOH) has reminded couples who celebrate Valentine’s Day this year to be careful not only against COVID-19 but also against other diseases such as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
You need to “Protect yourself”.
Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said there are other diseases you can get if you are not careful and HIV is one of them.
HIV leads to AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), a condition in which the body’s immune system is attacked and compromised, making the patient vulnerable to diseases that lead to death.
He assured the public that despite the government’s focus on the pandemic, the DOH continues to address other diseases affecting Filipinos.
Vergeire also reminded the public about #AwraSafely, the DOH’s campaign, and other non-governmental organizations to promote HIV awareness as well as the services available for People Living with HIV in the country.
“Awra,” a creative version of the English word “aura,” is a word popularized in Filipino gay culture, meaning to attract attention, or introduce someone’s presence.