The Changing Environment of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in Ventura County

Hiv/aids Report 2006-2007 C o u n t y o f V e n t u r a

Vea la traduccíon en Español adentro.

The Changing Environment of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic In Ventura County

Educate, Motivate, and Mobilize against HIV/AIDS

Ventura County Health Care Agency Ventura County HIV / A IDS a D V I S o r y C o m m i t t e e by Doug Green ongoing dialogue about improving pro about improving ongoing dialogue an resume fifties and forties thirties, their women men and in iced these tea, and to chat over sandwiches begin and in settle they As Oxnard. in Health Public O Coalition. HIV/AIDS Venturatee of County the Commit Advisory Quality the are They opinionated. highly and multi-ethnic straight, gay and are County. They tura of Ven parts come all HIV. They from with for people living services and grams helping to raise two nephews, sports a pony-tail and and apony-tail nephews, sports two helping to raise community. the in alive HIV helping conversation about to is keepgroup the the Walk, AIDS the and Festival Pride local the tables at Staffing streets. to the message the taken has group the and were printed cards and T-shirts what he or she knows. to disclose individual to the It leaves it stigma). persistent nasty, up (avoiding the or condition disease It doesn’t refer specific to any county. for our especially slogan, perfect the was this that agreed immediately group The you?” Do know. “I suggested for Mike HIV, into testing people cajole, guilt to goad convince, and strategies of discussion no-holds-barred afreewheeling, After L tested.” Nobody ever long me so why asked Iwaited to get died. Ialmost time. same at the diagnosis AIDS an got and people who tested one positive ofwas those “I offers, “system.” of the Mike fear of information, lack denial, reasons: possible considers group The time?” same at the diagnosis AIDS an getting and positive people testing many so are group, “Why the Iasked ratesof new infections. high continuing the by Valley, Simi frustrated is from of six grandfather a and of three afather Mike, into care. infected who are those getting and for HIV at high-risk meeting. showed first for the Seventeen people optimistic. guardedly at best, was, sprawl. I of suburban result inevitable the is that crabgrass of the all of battling stress about the thing get “to involved”.for people not wanting Some notorious is Ventura what to County expect. know didn’t group, Ireally the to facilitate Asked panel. advisory a new consumer on serving in interested for clients call put out Health a Public 2004, April In Anthony B., who lives in Thousand Oaks and is is and Oaks Thousand in B., who lives Anthony people centers often on reaching dialogue Group Quality HIV.” healthier life with means a longer, kind of knowledge treatments. That medications and up with new HIV it’s about keeping yourself. For others, how to protect about knowing … “For some it’s your HIV status. beyond knowing you?’ slogan goes The ‘I know. Do ference room at Ventura County second con floor the in gathers group nce adiverse amonth, paign to encouragepeople to getpaign tested. for acam slogans members brainstormed fellow Committee his and year, Mike ast A - - - - dvisory Committee Gathers Steam - - selves. The ‘I know. Do you?’ slogan goes beyond beyond goes slogan you?’ Do know. ‘I The selves. them of care taking in involved more and munity com the in involved more to people see want “I get says, Anthony or who aren’t care in status their know thepeopleof who numbers don’teither on Reflecting to say. something he has he speaks, When thoughtful. and He thirty-something is appointments. other and people to medical to taxi awillingness and portation reliable trans for abig heart, community the a rep in who are living with HIV. As a result, people are go people are a result, HIV. As with living who are others with together of getting afraid still are County “People Ventura in challenges. and of issues discussion for forums provides events and upcoming siteThe lists developed awebsite,Jim www.VenturaPositive.org. events, and services about community get information to place for consumers confidential need for asafe, the identified group the When expertise. of technological awealth Permanente and for Kaiser board advisory consumer on another serving experience with group Harbor. He comes to the Islands Channel a boat in HIV.” with life alonger, means healthier knowledge of kind That treatments. and medications HIV new with up keeping about it’s others, For yourself. protect to how knowing about it’s some “For says. he people,” different of lot a to things of lot a mean you,’can Do know. ‘I status. HIV your knowing Jim, a temporary Bay Area transplant, is restoring restoring is transplant, Bay Area atemporary Jim, and support,” going without services a result, people are living with HIV. As with others who are of getting together County are still afraid “People in Ventura - - - - battle against HIV. against battle to the play have in amajor epidemic, they part by this know, They women men and as huge affected threat. a it still Ventura is know in County. They community every in is HIV that know They ready forbe anything. to want they and future, to the ahead, looking are they website. members Some don’t even computers own but about the talking adjournment 1:30 scheduled the than stayed later group The community. HIV-affected the tive.org the from on how to information access to apresentation listened group the Instead or cake. were There no balloons April. in one-year anniversary no cost. updated at virtually continually be can and community accessibleentire is to the that service of community directory online for asearchable data of compiling challenge tookalone.” on the Danny Idon’tbattle that this havegroup. to fight Irealized support a me encouraged to find “Your story told him, who Angeles Los in group at asupport into aman ran he appeared story the after HIV. ayear About with ing ofliv people stories who are the people hear letting of advantage the sees ago and years several story Times L.A. an in topics. He featured was on HIV publishes per pa “color” the stories for local any offering Ventura Star to the written already He has at heart. He’s activist an you get backwhat you put out there.” come my has way. muchso support that it’s Iguess true treatments, these all through Going to keep swimming. I’m going extremist. I’m an or swim. sink as life see “I simultaneously. HIV and cancer battling who are pital hos the in coaches patients of chemotherapyand rounds two been through He has three. for another cancer with for 15 and years HIV with lived has Anthony thusiasm. en and of energy He awhirlwind abigis smile. and They know.They you? Do celebrated its Committee Advisory Quality The mid-year. group to the came Paula, Santa Danny, from website and discussed gaps in services with with services in gaps website discussed and entire community accessible to the thatis directory searchable resource invaluable:are a but results the several weeks The took task town wearing an Event Staff tee-shirt tee-shirt Event an Staff wearing town You around Walk. him see AIDS the volunteers at coordinated recently events. He community various ing organiz and pantry, food APVC advocate client for the the as serving Committee, Advisory Quality the to contributing between teer time volun his Ventura divides in and F. lives Anthony community. the in involved pretty yet all they’re unique, fees. web hosting monthly covers the member, group another who Sheila, of generous support the through of support.” site maintained The is community astronger build it will hopingthat resources, and formation in people sharing to get comfortable website to provide was aplace for the creating intent in “Our says. Jim support,” and services without ing org. … venturapositive. no cost. virtually updated at be continually whichand can Each of the committee members is members is committee of the Each VenturaPosi ------U nU dn ed res r ts t a a n ndidinn gg t t hh e ContextContext of of A IDSA IDS

2004-2005 Local HIV Prevention Programs

ublic health educator Emper- monolingual Spanish-speaking day work- Ventura County Rainbow portance of Referrals, Evaluating Local atriz Pinedo conducts educa- ers, and service and agricultural workers. Alliance [vcra] Interventions, and Responsibilities/Du- tional classes to prevent HIV Emperatriz teaches the Spanish-speaking Street Outreach ties of a Peer Educator. It also provides in a variety of settings across court mandated HIV education classes interactive group activities where the PVentura County. Her clients include for convicted drug users and prostitutes. Street outreach is conducted at Paddy’s participants can practice and perfect high-risk youth in high school, the She is often asked to conduct presenta- Romantix, which is an adult bookstore specific aspects of peer education. Each incarcerated and monolingual Span- tions at Oxnard and Ventura Colleges. frequented by Latino men who have sex young man then does outreach to ish-speaking adults. She runs a Spanish She has made more than 1,200 contacts with men, Ventura County Pride at the twenty peers. language women’s group at the Santa this fiscal year. Emperatriz is on the Cali- beach, 5th street beach, Foster Park, and Paula Resource Center and offers fornia AIDS Clearing House Advisory Surfers Point. The total number of street Social Marketing/events trainings to the Coalition to End Board that reviews Spanish-language outreach contacts reached so far this fis- Tear-off flyers and posters encouraging Family Violence’s volunteer training educational materials. She also works cal year is 427. Outreach to Latino bars HIV testing at Ventura County Rain- program. She develops parent projects for the Mixteco Health Project, which in Oxnard and Port Hueneme is being bow Alliance (VCRA) have been placed in Santa Paula. Ms. Pinedo also works provides train-the-trainer programs on researched to identify high traffic times. in the restrooms at Paddy’s and in each in Ojai and Oxnard with Spanish HIV prevention. arcade room at Romantix. Each tear-off Cyber Outreach flyer is posted less than a foot from an language classes for convicted batter- Many young gay men in Ventura County ers; Grupo de Apoyo Para Mujeres at Planned Parenthood HIV awareness poster. About 25 HIV Planned Parenthood’s The Confianza meet on the Internet. Cyber outreach is testers found out about VCRA testing Harrington School and Sheridan Way conducted at Gay.com and AOL Ven- School; Santa Paula police station, program consists of training high-risk services through posters and tear-off fly- Latina females about sexuality, sexually tura County chatrooms. When Ruben ers. Regular HIV/AIDS related articles Oxnard police storefront and the Jimenez, Program Manager of HIV Conejo Creek Center. transmitted infections, HIV, condom are submitted in the “Out-N-About” use, negotiation skills and how to do Education and Prevention and HIV/ newsletter with an MSM circulation size She makes presentations at alterna- AIDS educator logs into a chatroom, he tive and regular high schools consid- outreach to their peers. Each woman of about 300. goes out and does outreach to 50 peers. identifies himself via a broadcast state- ered by the state of California to be in ment. He provides information about Youth aids program (yap) “hot zones” where the rates of teenage These are high-risk women and are HIV/AIDS, safer sex and HIV testing. A different HIV prevention interven- pregnancy are very high. These include recruited from different parts of the This allows him to provide one-on-one tion is conducted each year with the Oxnard High School health classes County. This is a nationally recognized and broadcast education. gay, transgender and questioning youth and English as second language classes, program that is replicated in many com- group at the VCRA. This year the Pacifica High School, Fillmore High munities. This fiscal year, to date, more S-3 Program Youth Empowerment Program (YEP), School, Renaissance High and correc- than 150 persons have received peer This is a five-session education pro- as it is called, will develop and execute tional facilities including Todd Road education. gram that trains young gay men to be a Youth AIDS Prevention seminar for jail, Ventura County Youth Authority Current recruitment for Confianza peer educators. In addition to STD and youth [YAP]. The yearly youth trip to and juvenile correctional facilities. peer educators is taking place in the city HIV/AIDS education, the program cov- the San Francisco Pride celebration is Ms. Pinedo also provides Span- of Oxnard. The target population is ers many topics: What is Outreach Work, used as an incentive for participation. ish language classes at the Center for Spanish speaking migrant females. Spe- Ethnography, Phases of Targeted Preven- Our education and outreach activities Employment Training and New Start cifically, they are targeting a group in the tion, Stages of Behavior Change, Active have been very effective at increasing for Moms. She provides outreach to community of El Rio. Listening Techniques, Importance of awareness about HIV and AIDS in our Field Notes and Documentation, Im- County. d e a s I

KAMI by Craig Webb ifteen million children were orphaned by HIV/AIDS by the profound loss, and a basis for altering behaviors that perpetuate HIV and end of 2003. Nowhere is this epidemic more devastating to AIDS related stigmas. Kami does not only go out on TV but on radio r e ati v e children than in sub-Saharan Africa, home to 80% of those and through an outreach and training program that includes printed

C F orphaned by the disease according to the UNICEF Report: “Child- material and puppet shows. hood Under Threat: The State of the World’s Children 2005.” In 2003, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), appointed I like to travel so I was asked to write a short article about how Kami as its Champion for Children who have HIV/AIDS or have become HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention is being conducted in different AIDS orphans. UNICEF has predicted that by 2010 there will be approxi- areas of the world. This is a very broad topic so I have elected to write mately 20 million children in sub-Saharan Africa who have lost at least about one of my favorite HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention one parent to HIV/AIDS, bringing the total number of orphans in campaigns. the region to 40 million (Source: United Nations Children’s Fund). The subject of HIV/AIDS in South Africa is regarded by The Global Development Learning Network (GDLN) in 2004 many people as taboo, and sufferers, whether adults or children, invited Sesame Street and Kami to the World Bank’s headquar- are treated as social outcasts. Drugs to control the disease are ters, to bring many audiences together to discuss how innovative freely available to those with medical insurance, but there is no communications technology and creative educational methods state-funded anti-retroviral program for adults or children living (“edutainment”) can be used to fight diseases such as HIV/AIDS. with HIV/AIDS and the state unsuccessfully fought demands At the 2004 International AIDS Conference in Bangkok, Thailand, for drugs to limit mother-to-child transmission to the country’s Kami shared the spotlight with UNICEF Executive Director Carol highest court. Therefore “Education is the only socially acceptable vaccine Bellamy who launched a major report on global orphan estimates. Kami was able to available to our people and represents our only hope to save our nation,” bring levity and compassion to a topic that so often evokes the opposite. stated Education Minister Kader Asmal. “We can’t continue to have HIV South Africa’s most popular AIDS orphan, Kami, will begin urging the country’s positive children isolated, demonized, victimized. We want to make all of our grown-ups to talk to children about HIV/AIDS. She will also teach adults how children feel comfortable,” he said. to communicate with kids about HIV through the “talk to me” campaign. The In 2002, the South African government declared war on HIV/AIDS by campaign: urging South Africa’s “Takalani Sesame” (the South African adaptation of • promotes communication between parents, caregivers and children; Sesame Street) to create a HIV-infected character to reduce stigma about the • increases knowledge about HIV and AIDS, which breaks down fear, disease. As a result Kami, which is derived from the Tswana word for “accep- discrimination and stigma; tance,” was developed. • helps children cope with and protect themselves against HIV. Kami is a ginger-haired, perky, fun-loving and healthy, golden-yellow Since her debut, Kami has been warmly received and widely recognized, helping asymptomatic HIV positive orphan muppet. She is a five year old female to increase public discourse on issues typically constrained by prejudice and silence (women are often stigmatized about HIV and we are providing a good role What has been the impact of Kami’s appearance? model…” said Joel Schneider, Sesame Street Workshop’s senior advisor) and A young Takalani Sesame fan from Eshowe Township, South Africa wrote, “My sports a memory necklace to remind her of her mother whom she lost to friend…is Nomfundo.... Her mom died a few weeks ago…. I feel sad because my HIV/AIDS. She participates in a variety of normal activities on the show, friend is HIV positive. Other children, they don’t play with her and they don’t including exploring nature, collecting things and telling stories. But she also love her. My friend is still my friend and I love her. Everyday I’m watching Taka- talks about issues related to HIV positive children and AIDS orphans in a lani Sesame with my friend. Moshe and Kami on Takalani Sesame they care about way that three to seven year olds can understand. Kami provides children and people who are HIV-positive….” their caregivers with basic knowledge about the disease, skills for coping with

Ventura County HIV / A I D S a D V I S o r y C o m m i t t e e retested using another type of test. of test. type another retested using is client the positive, preliminarily it is that indicates test the If skills. reduction new harm hopefully, and information additional with armed leaves client the evidence of infection, shows test no the If test. screening of the result the provided with is theclient finished, is test the When Infection. to HIV possible exposure to reduce client’s the strategies ing develop and Disease about HIV tion informa reviewing time spend that client the and counselor the cessing, pro is test the While minutes. 20 approximately in answer an provides Ora-Quick, the as known test, The Test Ventura in County. available is Screening Rapid anew HIV 2005, of Spring the in Beginning fast. and easy, is free disease you have HIV on to someone else. passed be could disease the that chances the reduce greatly medications same the and system, immune to the causes virus the reduce damage the can that disease this to treat available tions medica better.help are There the you seek medical earlier the positive, HIV you are If savecould life. your it fact important—in very is status HIV your but knowing hard, be can question you that as ask yourself with honest Being disease? you have HIV T But Knowing is not relax and is part of their social life. life. social of their part is and relax people helps many A couple of drinks support. provide emotional that ties Wewhat we develop are. close can accepted be for who and hopefully and individuality our express can encounters, we social In ofmost us. for of life part essential people an is other and friends with Interacting situations. social in substances other of alcohol or use the in toseems lie answer of the Part new infections? user.each between “works” the or to clean needle, aclean to use it important is that danger, and the know also drugs to inject people needles who use Most activity. sexual engaged in acondom suchas protection when barrier by using protect themselves help to can they that know They needles. of shared use the through or contact, physical intimate through spread be can HIV that know basis to on aday-to-day Italk people that epidemic, most into the years twenty More to person. than person from spread is HIV causes that virus the of how basics the peoplemost know grow. and to sick, be No one wants to continues AIDS eventually and t e l I u o G a n a i D And now, outwhether And finding How do we explain the rise in in rise the How do we explain IKD age the effects of HIV infection infection of HIV effects age the to man of people struggling number n Ventura the County, you know for sure whether whether you for sure know question—Do important very a ask “IKDY” letters he four I know–do you? Y - - - - - ? • information: ments may be needed, so call ahead for provided at the sites listed below. Appoint 805-652-6583. by calling available is services on these Information available. are staff bilingual and manner aconfidential provided in are services All resident or not legal is required. a citizen Being them. afford notcould otherwise who to persons of charge provided free be can care medical and medications and disease this anyone who has assist • • • situations where risky behavior (sex behavior or where risky situations too much alcohol in notTry to drink • risk: at great put yourself erwise you oth might which in asituation with choice when confronted awise to make to help you of suggestions Here alist is safer. keep choices yourself and wise make you can plan’ that helps to ensure deadly. be it can diseases, transmitted sexually other and virus HIV ence of the pres the In effects. have catastrophic once” can this “just aneedle or to share choiceThe sex, to unprotected engage in too many. one time is one time times, Some make. wouldnot otherwise they choices may that make they extent that to suchan people’s thinking impair can substances these that is lem, of course, prob The enjoy of company others. the and relax, itrole: feel helps good, them way, some other in same acquire plays the they or that for them, been prescribed has that of adrug use the For others, social situations. other substances in the use of alcohol or answer seems to lie in infections? of Part the the rise in new How do we explain A variety of programs are available to available are of programs A variety

Experts suggest that having a ‘game a‘game having that suggest Experts 2500 “C” Street, Suite D, Oxnard SuiteD,Oxnard 2500 “C”Street, PublicHealth South Oxnard For information call 805-652- 1-4 p.m. Thursdayofeachmonth Third & LaGloriaMarket Center Transportation Oxnard The parkinglotnexttothe M-F 8:30-noonand1-4:30p.m. 805-652-5754 Road,Ventura3147 LomaVista Ventura PublicHealth M-F 8:30-noonand1-4:30p.m. 805-981-5221 Oxnard 2240 EastGonzalesRoad,Suite140, PublicHealth Oxnard North M-F 8:30-noon and 1-4:30 p.m. 805-385-9147 Mall) (Centrepoint Rapid Test services are currently being Decide on your plan before youDecide onplan your go. E nough 6694

- - - - - cide ahead of time how much you will how much you of time cide will ahead to liable De occur. is sharing) needle Santa Paula. Santa of Ventura in and City the in weekly replacement operate Syringe programs at 652-6113. Health able Public from are avail cleaning for Instructions first. it clean you aneedle, — if reuse must • need name. your to give you and do not clinics, public health all from of charge free available are it. Condoms on using insist sex, gage in you decide If or pocket. to en purse acondom Slip protection. into your • life. your endanger you to ask to right the No onecern. has con to first your be has safety your that you not do, wouldrather remember something into doing talked being are • choices, too. wise to make friends favor by same helping your the return to sure Be don’t letget HIV!! Friends —Friends atavoid risk yourself placing to help them you ask and friends, with • in.” “fit can and to drink you have something or water of juice that so full or can glass a try awkward, is adrink without being If amount. to a safe that limit and drink may start a similar program at your local high school. high at local your program asimilar may start you information, by this inspired you are If children’s lives. saves our and eases, dis avoids communicable reduces education risks, sexuality and awareness AIDS be. will know now job I next my years, 10 what past the over students school and high time own educate her to money donated has who School an to High TO at Thanks counselor them. for one inspired start to at like would I if Coordinator me asked Activity Park The not. Newbury did they that told was and programs similar paren with (but viewing permission). for tal Quilt AIDS the obtain to Oaks able was Thousand School year One High sites. web to directed are information more want 400 each. $1.00 almost at sold they bracelets year, rubber past red This school. the in around placed are locations which different posters 8-10 make also They member. admin staff teacher, and student, istrator every for ribbons Awareness have AIDS students original made Counseling Peer week, one for over year Every program years. 10 this led last and the started has who in me counselor put school the Coordinator with touch Activities Student The out about. find was to school program the this what called I day next The see. you could I that so picture camera my the get to record home rushed I told. be I to story a Instantly, was there Prevention”. is knew Education “AIDS stating symbolic the poster the spotted with horse surprise, my to and School High Oaks Thousand at up does. it course, of But munity. com this in exists AIDS or HIV that heard never have I Oaks. Thousand of city conservative affluent, the in reside I committee. this on sit who professionals among lay-person only the am I see, You meaningful. be would that contribute could I t what t e W k c u D e n n a z u S

In spite of how we might feel, the practical facts are that factual and truthful truthful and factual that are facts spite practical of howIn feel, the we might had they if see to Schools High Westlake and Park Newbury contacted I who Students charities. AIDS benefit sales bracelet the from funds The daughter my picking was I day One Never share a needle with anyone with aneedle Never share of some barrier form carry Always you Don’t If used. be let yourself or gathering party to going the Try High School Awareness AIDS didn’t have a clue about about clue a have didn’t I article, an submit to asked first was I hen - - - - - administrator and and administrator teacher, student, every for ribbons Awareness AIDS original made have students Counseling Peer week, one for year Every staff member. member. staff

- - Thousand Oaks High School has an AIDS awareness week. Thousand OaksHighSchoolhasanAIDSawareness U n d e r s t a n di n g t h e Context of A IDS

High School AIDS Awareness educate gay and bisexual men who look for sex on the internet about HIV/AIDS and other STI’s, as well as encourage HIV and STI testing. Unfortunately, funding to do research and outreach through the internet is only targeted to gay and bisexual men and neglects the heterosexual community of Ventura County. Studies have shown that heterosexual men and women are also logging onto the internet to find sex, increasing STI infection rates among these individuals as well. “The Internet is a flourishing sex venue, and women too are using this new vehicle to seek out sex partners” (Mcfarlane, 2004, Journal of Women’s Health). Seeking sex on the internet, regardless of sexual orientation, will put any person at greater risk for HIV and other STI’s, thus, creating a need to develop online HIV/STI prevention techniques not only to gay and bisexual men, but all online sex-seekers. Even though the many individuals who find sex online are at greater risk for HIV and other STI’s, there is a positive note to all this. The internet can also allow someone who plans on having sex with a person they’ve met through the internet to discuss topics they might not feel entirely comfortable discussing in person, like HIV and other STI’s. Such outreach can help them prepare for an initial meeting, such as running down to the store and purchasing condoms, as opposed to meeting someone at a bar after three drinks, where one’s judgment can suffer, resulting in bad choices. Meeting Thousand Oaks High School has an AIDS awareness week. through the internet may actually have lower risks. I have conducted many HIV tests and asked clients who come in about their sexual Just over 54 percent of students discuss HIV with their parents. Percentages vary little history. Those who meet sex partners through by race/ ethnicity . . . . 60 % of girls, but only 49% of boys, talk with their parents.* the internet were at least three times more likely to engage in safer sex than those who met *Source: Parent-Child Communication: Promoting Sexually Healthy Youth someone while intoxicated at a bar. If that’s the http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/publications/factsheet/fsparchd.htm case, why are people more at risk for HIV and other STI’s if they meet someone through the internet? The fact is that the internet has al- lowedindividuals to find more sex part- A Computer Just as the internet ners more frequently. Ask any tech guy. has provided new The more things you download onto Virus that’s your computer, the greater chance you ways to increase are at catching a virus. The same goes Deadly — HIV personal risk, it also with sex — the more you have it, the provides new ways greater chance you are at catching a vi- By Ruben Jimenez to conduct outreach rus. From the Y2K scare in 1999 to the e have arrived in an age invention of online banking, we have where computers have pretty and prevention. seen in the past 10 years just how depen- much become one of the AIDS Project Ventura dent we have become on computers. The Wmost important things in our society. County, a program of internet has given us power: However, It’s amazing how much you can do with the Ventura County with this power comes responsibility. just the frantic tapping of your finger- No virus screenings are available when tips. You can use a computer for almost Rainbow Alliance, has you meet someone through the internet anything today, from getting groceries been spearheading the like there are for attachments in your delivered to your doorstep, to paying only internet-based e-mail. The solution here is not to stop bills, to getting the entire Beatles album outreach program meeting potential partners online, but collection—all without leaving the com- devoted to HIV/ to do so responsibly. Whether it’s online fort of your home (or office). With all or offline, we all have the responsibility this power and reliance on computers, AIDS education... to our health and the health of others to it’s no wonder millions of dollars are practice safer sex. Public health enti- consequences. Many individuals testing spent each year on online security and ties also have an obligation to research positive for HIV or other STI’s (sexually anti-virus software. Of all the things trends in health risks and to help inform transmitted infections) have admitted that can go bad in your day, a computer the public about such risks. People can- to finding their partners through the virus is on top of that list. However, not avoid risks without good informa- internet. there’s one virus no computer software tion, and what may seem obvious is not Just as the internet has provided new can protect us from—HIV. always so. ways to increase personal risk, it also Yes, of all the things computers have In spite of misinformation from many provides new ways to conduct outreach allowed us to come across, one of those of our politicians about condoms not and prevention. AIDS Project Ventura things is sex. The internet has provided working, condoms are the best proven County, a program of the Ventura the opportunity for individuals to meet effective virus protection when it comes County Rainbow Alliance, has been other people, whether for social activi- to sex. spearheading the only internet-based ties, finding the right partner for the Get condoms and use them. outreach program devoted to HIV/ long-term, or the right partner “for AIDS education and prevention for tonight.” Thousands of internet sites the past 5 years. An outreach worker are devoted to that last goal — satisfy- “goes into” chat rooms and discusses ing that need to find the right part- issues surrounding the health of gay and ner for tonight. With this new way of bisexual men in Ventura County. The “hooking up” comes potential negative outreach worker’s main concern is to H I V / A I D S S e r vic e s i v e

L Housing for People with HIV/AIDS

to by Susan Attaway

e t may be difficult for some people to understand that contracting HIV • Low incomes of people living with HIV/AIDS (due to health problems and/or c and/or AIDS has a massive impact on one’s daily life, as well as health sta- other disabilities, such as mental illness or substance use). l a tus. The basic ability to maintain housing arrangements is a major problem • Lack of housing assistance options, such as Section 8, due to long waiting lists

P I for people whose health becomes impaired. In 2004, Ventura County Public and federal funding restrictions that limit access to programs by people with a

Health contracted with AIDS Housing of Washington, a Seattle-based techni- criminal histories or those who lack documentation. cal assistance provider, to conduct an HIV/AIDS housing needs assessment and • Limited information about available housing programs or affordable apartments plan. A Steering Committee made up of local providers and community stake- and limited capacity of HIV/AIDS service providers to assist in housing searches

av i n g holders oversaw the process, identified issues, and developed recommendations. and resolve discrimination issues.

H • Inconsistent collaboration between HIV/AIDS and other service systems and a The HIV/AIDS housing needs assessment included background research, a need to continue to build relationships among services systems. survey of people living with HIV/AIDS, focus groups of people living with • Lack of advocacy by the HIV/AIDS community for local housing at forums HIV/AIDS, and interviews of key community stakeholders. Twenty-two people regarding the housing needs of people living with HIV/AIDS. living with HIV/AIDS participated in focus groups and 80 completed the survey. Results show that many people living with HIV/AIDS: To address the issues identified during the needs assessment process, the Steering • Become unable to afford housing in Ventura County Committee agreed upon recommendations grouped into three categories: • Cope with the overcrowded housing that is available, and cannot pay for Coordinate Service Providers. This includes developing a joint training curriculum other necessities such as medications and declining credit status. for HIV/AIDS case managers, ensuring that HIV case managers take part in inter- • Face additional barriers to housing because of a lack of documentation, disciplinary case-conferencing and that HIV/AIDS agency staff take part in services poor rental histories, discrimination, and other disabilities that limit hous- networking meetings. ing availability such as mental illness or substance use. Increase Rental Assistance. This includes advocating that housing authorities set • Prefer housing assistance that enables them to live independently, integrated aside Section 8 vouchers for people with HIV/AIDS (as is currently done by the into the community, without fear of harassment, in safe, decent housing City of Ventura Housing Authority), adding people living with HIV/AIDS as a lo- supported by HIV/AIDS service providers. cal preference, and/or allocating project-based rental assistance subsidies to people living with HIV/AIDS in future housing development projects. Finally, advocate to Forty-eight community stakeholders, including providers of housing and the Ventura County CEO Office to utilize HOME funds for a tenant-based rental services to people living with HIV/AIDS and other special needs populations, assistance program for people living with HIV/AIDS. identified the following issues impacting housing availability for people living Housing Development. Approach local Community Housing Development Or- with HIV/AIDS:

HIV/AIDS: General Trends and Modes of Transmission

by Diana Grill, Lynn Bartosh, Barbara Spraktes-Wilkins and Doug Green HIV Reporting Trends Cumulative Trends HIV reporting in California has been mandated since July 1, 2002. From 2002 to 2004, 294 HIV cases were reported in Ventura County. HIV infection trends will be Ventura County has roughly 2.2% of the total California population, but only made clearer over the next 3 to 5 years as the backlog of HIV cases are reported. .007% of AIDS cases (958 out of 135,060), and a similar ratio of AIDS deaths.We have had very few pediatric AIDS cases or deaths. Late Identification of HIV Although the rate of AIDS reporting has decreased, there is a worrisome trend in Cumulative Data for HIV/AIDS the segment of this population being co-diagnosed with HIV and AIDS.

Event Ventura HIV Ventura AIDS California USA AIDS HIV/AIDS Report and Co-Report Trends: Higher Type (2002-2004) (2002-2004) AIDS (1982-2003) Co-Reporting Indicates Delayed Diagnosis, Increasing Public Risk (1983-2004) Adult 286 958 135,060 920,566 Cases

Adult 3 538 78,637 518,568 Deaths Pediatric 8 3 647 9,419 Cases Pediatric 0 2 387 5,492 Deaths

Progress with AIDS The rate of AIDS cases and AIDS deaths in Ventura County has decreased in the last decade. This suggests that effective medical treatments from the 1990’s have made a difference in lowering the number of AIDS cases and deaths. During this same time period, the death to case ratio (Number of AIDS deaths/Number These individuals are seeing the doctor and being diagnosed with AIDS of AIDS cases) has also decreased. We have had more success at delaying AIDS with no previous diagnosis of HIV. The problem with co-diagnosis is that deaths than preventing AIDS cases from developing. Our goal is to further con- the person is walking around with an HIV infection for 10 years on average tinue to prevent AIDS and ultimately HIV infection from occurring. By achiev- without knowing it. During these 10 yuears their immune system is weaken- ing this we can continue to improve the health and well-being of the community. ing and they are infecting their intimate contacts with the AIDS virus. If they knew they had HIV infection both of these things could be prevented. The percentage of persons co-diagnosed with HIV and AIDS peaked in 2004 at Ventura County AIDS Case and Death Rate Trends 89%. This is up from the previous high in 1999 of 71% and much increased from the 41% reported in 1995. This trend may reflect demographic changes within the HIV/AIDS population. It may suggest the need for adopting education and outreach to meet the changing needs of people infected with HIV. It is important to keep tracking this population as their lack of knowledge of their HIV status prior to AIDS diagnosis portrays a real risk of ability to transmit HIV over a long period of time.

Total Number of AIDS Cases Reported

Report Year HIV/AIDS Cases HIV/AIDS Percentage Co-diagnosis 2002 41 22 54% 2003 30 21 70% 2004 35 31 89%

H I V / A I D S S e r vic e s ganizations (CHDOs) to advocate for HIV/AIDS housing needs. Apply for Different Latitudes, California HOPWA funds for pre-de- Housing for People with HIV/AIDS velopment expenses for projects that will result in dedicated housing units Different Attitudes in a mixed-population housing devel- by Craig Webb opment. Apply for Section 811 fund- ow a society responds to … research on HIV/ ing and State of California HOPWA HIV/AIDS is based on the AIDS, human sexuality, funding to develop housing units for Hcomplex set of attitudes and human development, people living with HIV/AIDS, utiliz- beliefs about life. The wealth of evidence ing HOPWA funding for pre-develop- in resesarch on HIV/AIDS, human and health practices ment costs. Advocate in coordination sexuality, human development, and all point to openness with existing housing advocacy groups health practices all point to openness and honesty as critical for inclusionary zoning (such as the and honesty as critical factors in slowing factors in slowing program in place in Oxnard) in each the spread of related problems like sexu- jurisdiction of the county as a means to ally renasmitted diseases and teenage the spread of sexually increase housing for people with low in- pregnancies. related problems … comes and/or special needs. Approach The photo below was taken in Victoria, faith-based organizations to develop British Columbia. This store is in a set of on the garden terrace, where you’re in land owned by churches. shops in a very old rehabilitated build- a fairyland of twinkling lights. C&C Link these findings with other local ing near the harbor. The fact that this is boasts the world’s largest collection of housing planning processes. Advocate that local jurisdictions include HIV/AIDS a condom store shows that attitudes are national brand condoms which is dis- housing plan findings in local “housing elements” of their community plans. very different and open among at least played around the walls, and the carpet Ensure that the need for HOPWA funding for pre-development expenses is noted. Advocate for the inclusion of the findings of this HIV/AIDS housing needs assessment in their administrative plans. Ensure HIV/AIDS agency staff and/or consumer participation in the Health Care for the Homeless Advisory Council and the Ventura County Homeless and Housing Coalition. Provide Public Education about Fair Housing and HIV/AIDS. Assure that issues of discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS and education about the disease are part of local Fair Housing training. These are all actions that could be implemented in Ventura County to improve the ability of people living with HIV/AIDS to continue to have productive lives.

Susceptible Populations Everyone should take measures to protect themselves from HIV and AIDS. Statistics from 2003 and 2004 show cases of HIV occurring in all age groups. They also show Openness and honesty about safe sexual that HIV transmission occurred among men having sex with men, heterosexuals and practices saves lives IN CANADA intraveneous drug users (IDU). Although the majority of the reported HIV cases for 2003 and 2004 were male, 19% of these cases were female, which is a growing trend. some of our neighbors. up the stairs has cartoons of typical Going farther afield than Canada, condoms for various trades and profes- ge and ex for eported ases 2003/2004 A S R HIV C Craig Webb reports that a restauranteur sions woven into the fabric. Luckily, it in Thailand is also making an effort to also serves delicious and innovative Thai <19 yrs 16 9% reduce the spread of HIV. This restau- food. Spicy Condom Salad, for example 20-29 yrs 35 20% rant is called Cabbages and Condoms. –- fried Shanghai noodles spiced with Cabbages are a common food in north- 30-39 yrs 62 35% herbs. An extensive variety of cocktails east Thailand. In fact they are a staple and other drinks is available at the Va- 40-49 yrs 51 28% part of the diet. They are grown in all sectomy Bar, and the service is friendly >49 yrs 15 8% villages and everybody uses them. Now, and efficient. Instead of a mint, you will if condoms could be as common and be presented with a foil wrapped con- Males 143 81% used as often, then some of the popula- dom with your bill, all in keeping with Females 33 19% tion and health problems facing Thailand the education of AIDS/HIV awareness could be overcome! and education. Toward the back near HIV has appeared in different sectors of the population and some people are at Opened by local hero Mechai Viravaid- the restrooms there is a center where increased risk for acquiring the virus. The risk if exposed increases up to 5 fold if ya, the former Thai Minister of Health they hold classes on the transmission/ you have a sexually transmitted infection such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis. who founded the Population & Com- prevention of the HIV virus. Of the roughly 3,100 Confidential Morbidity Reports received by Ventura County munity Development Association (PDA), In the adjoining gift shop, bouquets Public Health every year, sexually transmitted illness comprises approximately half. a non-profit organization in 1974, the of condoms look disconcertingly like It is critical to have all infections diagnosed and appropriately treated as soon as restaurant helps fund population con- bunches of Black-eyed Susans. They possible. Using latex condoms correctly further reduces the risk of transmission. trol, AIDS awareness, and a host of rural stand in vases next to silver bracelets, The list below includes other factors that increase the risk of acquiring HIV. development programs. Viravaidya wants vests and other handcrafts made by vil- • Having a sexually transmitted infection to make condoms as common--and as ac- lagers. Piles of T-shirts are emblazoned • Having multiple sex partners or anonymous sex partners cepted--as cabbages —hence the restau- with the message, “Cabbages and Con- • Using or having a sex partner who uses intravenous drugs rant’s name. He has passed them out to doms, Our food is guaranteed not to surprised bankers and CEOs at sober cause pregnancy.” All profits from the • Men who have sex with men who are infected with HIV World Bank meetings and paid farmers store are returned to the villages, and it • Anal receptive sex (riskier than anal insertive sex, but both have a high risk of to paint ads and public service announce- provides a convenient outlet for many of acquiring HIV) ments for condoms on the sides of their the traditional and more modern handi- • Having a sex partner who is HIV positive water buffalo. PDA’s programs contrib- crafts produced in Northeast Thailand. uted to lowering the number of children Proceeds from the sale of these items ases by xposure ode 2003/2004 HIV C E M per family from 7 to 2 in just 12 years. A and the restaurant’s meals are given to free vasectomy from the clinic next door the PDA. is one of the perks for males dining at Cabbages and Condoms has been Bangkok’s Cabbages and Condoms. consistently rated one of the best res- PDA has taken a fun approach to the taurants in Bangkok. So far, however, promotion of condoms for population there’s no rating -- good or bad -- for control and community health, establish- the vasectomies next door. ing the Cabbages and Condoms Res- taurant (C&C) with the major theme of condoms. Set in a large compound, the two-story restaurant has air-conditioned indoor dining or if you like you may sit Data Source for this article: HIV and AIDS Reporting System (HARS) Ventura County HIV / A I D S a D V I S o r y C o m m i t t e e anyone whose theypain have lightened and whose lives they have helped save. Those who have done work this have my deepest gratitude, and the gratitude of cure. for ascientific working those as vital never honored be publicly, of people who will sands but who play arole as just of thou acts by the achieved quietly being is spread of HIV the Reducing vention. pre to HIV promote sex and ongoing safer effort of the apart simply is and each person I thank behaviors. physical risky glamorizing than rather of adulthood, sign true the siteis whobehavior responsible internet show designers and that screenwriters media the those in I thank public topic discourse. in avital health to keep press sexual the in misquoted youI offer to thank aspecial experts children. their and friends to along family, information I honor co-workers the contact. personal on safe information current to share standing good their people overI thank all country the professions. of their apart is that of practice range full out the at home carry and beliefs religious I honor professionals medical the beliefs. debate on personal for control a out not birth does single and prescriptions seriously, honors all pharmacist the I thank judgment. without questions or condomshelf to answer display store the clerkI thank staffs supply health I thank store owners, hospitals andmedical students. with safety sexual to discuss willing who are newcounselors college year, for and the on campus people arrive colleges I thank save lives. activities mundane seemingly These up afterwards. to clean stays then and coffee to up the set comes early who person the Ithank health. sex and beliefs, religious between struggle the to discuss forums open plan that congregations Ithank sex brochures. safe churches, I thank to healthy. stay action take and risks, any wonder sex has senior if who grandpas and grandmas how dad mom people and get HIV. Ithank his place” asks and his who “forgets child any Ithank kids. their with issues these discuss honestly then sex, safe and more about to HIV zones learn comfort outside their members who search family save Ithank young lives. can that activism unpopular involved with risks the people for taking these to sex. thank Iwant unsafe from fallout the to helpsources with youth cope re available to combine all working is group This prevention information. spread out and of people search have to together actively gathered A variety Silence to Truth Speaking sage “Just Say No” is a death sentence. Silence puts our kids at risk. young people, the knowledge they may need to save their own lives. The mes a ofpart life for everyone, but through our silence, we deny people, especially in the community lives.their family are still The and isreality AIDS that HIV debates. Young people into fall unreachable “Black Holes” depending on where people continue to be secondary to the spotlight on “social, moral and ethical” services and political philosophy about prevention. Infected, affected and at-risk Today the changing HIV/AIDS environment includes a reorganization of by Valentine, Marggie MFT S V S 10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. R uggested C entura t the developmentthe improvement services and of care prevention and in by HIV affected and involvement with the Encourage of people infected schools Ventura in County education HIV to support Continue for for HIV people at risk programs abuse substance to support Continue system jail the in HIV with to persons care of medical provision timely Continued diagnoses dual with those serving in collaboration agency Encourage personnel emergency services for education law enforcement and HIV support and Encourage groups for high-risk outreach prevention, and education to support Continue HIV/AIDS with for those housing need for affordable of promotethe recognition arise, opportunities As county. the throughout expansion its and Replacement Program Syringe to support Continue programs for HIV funding state and federal Support a who put up posters and make handouts available. available. handouts make who put and up posters ying

that post safe sex information in dormitories when young dormitories in sex information safe post that B ounty temples and synagogues that request and disseminate disseminate request and that temples synagogues and A ecommendation to the who raises funds, volunteers time, listens, teaches listens, volunteers time, funds, who raises who takes the extra time at the pregnancy kit kit pregnancy at the time extra the who takes who are open enough to listen and pass the the pass and enough open to listen who are he who takes his or her role as a medical provider or her amedical role as his who takes , the movie makers, the talk show hosts, the the show hosts, talk the moviemakers, , the of S oard ad who leave their personal and/or personal who leave their who risk their jobs or at least their who risk

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