Gov. Gregoire�s statement recognizing 2008 World AIDS day

For Immediate Release: December 1, 2008

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today released the following statement recognizing 2008 World AIDS day:

�I am pleased to recognize World AIDS day and want to thank the people who diligently work every day in the promise of universal access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care. World AIDS day serves both as a reminder of the great accomplishments scientists and communities are making in combating HIV/AIDS, and also as a call to action because there is much needed work yet to be done.

�Since the beginning of the epidemic, 16,710 people have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Washington state. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 700 Washington residents are newly infected with HIV every year.

�In Washington, we are working together with partners in the private sector and with outstanding non-profit organizations to ensure equal access to critical HIV/AIDS services to anyone in need. In recognition of World AIDS Day, we strengthen our resolve to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in Washington and around the world.