It is a strange fear that one encounters when awaiting the verdict of 'positive' or 'negative'. Accor Services staff recently showed their support of AIDS Awareness through participating in screening tests.

AIDS is one of those nouns tagged with negative connotations. Mention it in company and humour falls short. In reality, it is precisely this aversion to communicate about AIDS that sees thousands of people becoming infected year after year. 'The frightening fact about AIDS is that one can treat it, but it cannot be cured' noted Johann - our registered nurse - during our pre-screening counseling. 'But it is far better to know that one is positive and treat AIDS.'

The room was tense as Johann continued to talk about the most common means of infection: in South Africa 98% of those diagnosed with AIDS are infected through sexual transmission of the virus. And in the real world, as Johann was quick to point out, there are men and women who are unfaithful to their partners, and promiscuity and one night stands abound. One should never complacently believe that all is sunshine and roses. Rather, practice safe sex. And where there is a partner - work at an honest relationship. Work towards going for an AIDS screening test together.

Accor Services staff members proudly had the screening tests done, in order to raise awareness about AIDS, and stand-up against the silence. AIDS affects everyone - from housewives, socialites, business professionals, sports men and women to babies and children, this is a virus that isn't picky about its victims.it could be you.

So help yourself and those around you by raising awareness - speak about it, go for the screening test and practice safe sex.

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