In this podcast Max Tweedie from the New Zealand AIDS Foundation talks about the Ending HIV campaign. Its aim is to end new HIV transmission by 2025.
Summary
In a podcast recorded at Waitangi Park in Wellington, New Zealand, Max Tweedie from the New Zealand AIDS Foundation discussed the Ending HIV campaign and its goal to end new HIV transmissions by 2025. The conversation, happening on a sunny day during an event, covered the promotion of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) as a recent HIV prevention method, the continued advocacy for condom use, and the importance of treatment for people living with HIV to maintain an undetectable viral load as a means to prevent transmission.
Tweedie explained that although PrEP had been available in New Zealand before, there were barriers such as needing to import it and limited doctor awareness. However, with funding from the Pharmaceutical Management Agency (Pharmac), a $5 fee for a three-month supply, and an increasing number of doctors educated on prescribing PrEP, access has significantly improved. The Foundation's website provides a list of prescribing doctors to assist individuals in finding the appropriate healthcare providers.
The conversation also highlighted that the New Zealand AIDS Foundation's messaging has evolved from focusing solely on condoms to include two additional prevention methods: PrEP and maintaining an undetectable viral load for people living with HIV. The community's response has been largely positive, as these new methods provide alternatives for those who may not prefer condom use. Tweedie acknowledged some concerns, such as managing the risks of other STIs and verifying that individuals claiming to be on PrEP are genuinely using it. These concerns underscored the message of personal responsibility in managing one's sexual health.
The interviewer inquired about the challenges the community has faced with the updated messaging. Tweedie cited fear of moving away from the traditional condom message, but emphasized that while there may be concerns, the overarching response to the new methods has been receptive and supportive.
Personally, Tweedie expressed excitement and pride in participating at the event, especially after having been involved with the Auckland Pride. The gathering represented a beautiful and diverse community coming together in celebration and acceptance. Tweedie extended a message of support and anticipation to those who could not attend the event, assuring them of the community’s love and support.
This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.
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Tags
2010s, aotearoa new zealand, auckland pride festival, community, condoms, diversity, ending hiv (campaign), health, health care, health education, hikoi to out in the park, hiv / aids, hiv education, max tweedie, out in the park (wellington), pharmaceutical management agency (pharmac), prep (pre-exposure prophylaxis), safe sex, sexual health, sti, undetectable viral load, waitangi park, wellington