Governor Gregoire Statement on 19th Annual World AIDS Day

For Immediate Release: December 1, 2006

�For many of us, today is a day to remember family members, partners and friends who have been lost to AIDS. It is also a day to recommit ourselves to stop the spread of this disease and find a cure.

�Nearly one in four people who are infected with HIV are not aware of it and it is estimated that there are 11,000 to 13,000 people living in Washington with HIV.

�Routine testing as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is the only sure-fire way that people can learn if they are infected with HIV. Studies show that if people know they are infected, they are more likely to take steps to prevent the spread of HIV and will take advantage of life-prolonging medications.

�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 will strengthen our resolve to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in Washington and around the world.�

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