HIV and AIDS

Half of all new HIV infections – around 6,000 a day – are occurring in young people aged 14 to 24 and every day, almost 2,000 babies are infected with HIV during pregnancy, birth or through breastfeeding.

Globally, Save the Children is taking a number of approaches to tackle the spread of HIV and AIDS. We work with local partners to prevent infection by educating children and families. We find ways of engaging children and young people, such as through peer education and talking about sexual and reproductive health and how to make healthy choices that decrease the risk of infection.

Our experience shows that improving the length and quality of parents’ lives makes a real difference for children. This is why we support local communities to provide care to parents as well as children living with HIV and AIDS.

We also train community health workers, home carers and social workers to address the psychological health of children affected by the disease and advocate for accessible and affordable health services to ensure improved treatment, care and support.