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Survey shows HIV stigma remains high in NZ

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Wed, 28 Nov 2018, 10:07AM
The AIDS Foundation says that stigma is a barrier to those seeking treatment. (Photo / Getty)
The AIDS Foundation says that stigma is a barrier to those seeking treatment. (Photo / Getty)

Survey shows HIV stigma remains high in NZ

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Wed, 28 Nov 2018, 10:07AM

You'd get more germs from sharing a glass with someone with a cold, than someone living with HIV.

A survey commissioned by the New Zealand AIDS Foundation and Positive Women shines a light on the stigma for people living with the virus.

Foundation chief executive Dr Jason Myers says there are some alarming results.

"Nearly 50 per cent of New Zealanders aren't comfortable letting their child play with another child living with HIV, and nearly 14 per cent of New Zealanders aren't comfortable having a flatmate living with HIV."

It also found that 88 per cent of Kiwis would be uncomfortable having a sexual relationship with someone living with HIV.

Foundation chief executive Dr Jason Myers says there are still huge misconceptions about how HIV is transmitted.

"Things like sharing glasses, sharing a cubicle, sharing a living space with someone living with HIV, doesn't place you at risk at all."

The foundation says that stigma is a major barrier that prevents people from seeking treatment.

They say that drugs, such as PrEP, prevent the disease from being caught during condomless sex.

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