1st December 2003

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Ten people will be infected with HIV today and 7,200 people will die from AIDS – warned a University of Ulster researcher.

Paul Fleming, from the School of Nursing, was speaking at the Red Ribbon Balloon launch, organised by the Sexual Health by Peers Project (SHEP), to mark World AIDS Day.

The balloons will represent people diagnosed with HIV in Northern Ireland.

“Ten people are infected with HIV every minute of every day and on World AIDS Day – as with every other day – 7200 people with die of AIDS,” said Mr Fleming.

He highlighted the stark facts surrounding the devastating disease:

5 million people worldwide were infected with HIV last year

• That’s 10 people infected every minute
• 5 people die of an AIDS
• 7200 people per day
• 50,400 people per week Globally, in 2002
• 16% of HIV infections were to under 15-year-olds (800,000)
• 42% were to 15 – 24 year-olds (2,100,000)
• 58% of infections were in under 25 year olds (2,900,000)

“One of the greatest barriers is ignorance, this must be address through education,” stressed Mr Fleming.

“This must be started as early as pre-school and be continued in other places where young people are. There must be education in the public domain and in faith communities such as churches, mosques and temples. There should be education where public policy is made.”

The Red Ribbon Balloon launch will take place and 1pm at City Hall. Belfast Lord Mayor, Martin Morgan will help launch the event.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk