1 Dec, 2013
As you may know, December 1st is World AIDS Day – the day on which the international community unites in its stand against this disease that has already reached epidemic proportions in several parts of the world. Whilst Sri Lanka still records a relatively low prevalence of HIV and AIDS, we cannot be complacent, considering that 46 new HIV cases and 7 AIDS-related deaths have been reported during the second quarter of 2013 (as per the report of the National STD/AIDS Control Programme). This amounts to about 4 new HIV positive cases every week and the fact that this is a growing trend is alarming and demonstrates we are all vulnerable to its impact. Just as no country has remained untouched by HIV, no business organization can be immune to its impact. This is why it is imperative that the business community is increasingly involved in the response to HIV and AIDS, not simply as an act of good citizenship, but also in the interests of sustainability and productivity.