National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day is observed annually on May 18 and recognizes everyone who has worked toward finding a safe and effective vaccine for HIV. All over the world, thousands of health professionals, scientists, volunteers, and community members have worked tirelessly to conduct research or raise money for research for an HIV vaccine.

Their contributions are honored on this day. Another purpose of this holiday is to publicize the progress that has been made over the past three-plus decades of HIV research, although much more work remains to be done.

The History of National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day

This holiday was created by the National Institutes of Health. The concept of the holiday started with a speech made by then U.S. President Bill Clinton on May 18, 1997. His speech emphasized the importance of developing a vaccine to combat HIV.

Facts About HIV & AIDS

Below are some facts that we’ve learned about HIV and AIDS during the course of our research.

• More than 1.2 million Americans aged 13 and older are living with HIV.
• Although there is no cure for HIV, the viral load can be reduced to the point where it is undetectable.
• Researchers have been working on an HIV vaccine for decades.
• Sharing needles is the second most common way that HIV is transmitted to women in the U.S.

Observing National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day

This holiday can be observed by learning more about HIV and AIDS and by taking the time to donate money to HIV vaccine research. People can also spread the word about this holiday using the hashtag #HIVVaccineAwarenessDay or #HVAD on their social media accounts.