News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 17, 2015
CONTACT: Suzanna Cisneros, suzanna.cisneros@ttuhsc.edu
(806) 743-7605

The Time to Act is Now
Medical Students to host World AIDS Day events

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 50,000 people get infected with HIV each year. In 2010, there were around 47,500 new HIV infections in the United States. The World Health Organization set World AIDS Day for Dec. 1. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Medicine students will host week-long events to commemorate HIV awareness November 30 to December 4.

Holly Mulinder, event organizer and second-year medical student, said this year’s national theme is, “The Time to Act is Now.” This year’s events will provide information to learn about HIV facts and use the knowledge to protect yourself and others from HIV infection.

“Education and awareness remain essential components in the battle against HIV/AIDS,” Mulinder said “They are the first steps to changing the stigma that surrounds this virus.”

Events will include:

Monday (Nov. 30)
The Flower Wall – an opportunity for flowers to be placed on a wall display in honor of individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Texas Tech University Free Speech Area, Akron Avenue

Tuesday (Dec. 1)
The Flower Wall
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
TTUHSC Academic Classroom Building first floor lobby, 3601 4th St.

A panel discussion lead by Richard Winn, M.D., and Ricky Vaughn will address the challenges of HIV and AIDS from the perspective of the patient, family and health care provider. Free lunch will be served to first 70 people.
Noon – 1 p.m.
TTUHSC Academic Classroom Building Room 100

Movie Event, “It’s Not Over”
6:30 p.m.
Alamo Draft House, 120 West Loop 289
Limited seating is available.

Wednesday (Dec. 2)
The Flower Wall
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
TTUHSC Academic Classroom Building first floor lobby, 3601 4th St.

Candlelight Vigil
6 p.m.
Texas Tech University Memorial Circle

Thursday (Dec. 3)
The Flower Wall
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
TTUHSC Academic Classroom Building first floor lobby, 3601 4th St.

Friday (Dec. 4)
The Flower Wall
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
TTUHSC Academic Classroom Building first floor lobby, 3601 4th St.

For more information, contact the Office of Global Health at (806) 743-2901.

For more breaking news and experts, follow @ttuhscnews on Twitter.

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