Harnessing influence on social media for youth sexual health and HIV awareness

Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project, a global initiative funded by PEPFAR and USAID and led by FHI 360, engaged youth leaders and influencers in a fun and interactive learning experience on HIV, sexual pleasure, and sexual health promotion through this year’s Young Influencers Convention.

The convention was held in early August at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City, as part of the upskilling activities under EpiC’s Free to Be YOUTH HUB. The goal of the two-day convention was to develop and sustain collaboration between advocates and online influencers in promoting sexual health in various social media platforms.

Stay protected, be PrEPared! Learn about choices on HIV prevention

Photo credits: FHI360

The Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project, a global initiative funded by PEPFAR and USAID and led by FHI 360, is calling for increased awareness about HIV prevention and how it can be easily accessed.

“The Philippines is currently experiencing the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Western Pacific, with new cases surging among young people,” said EpiC Philippines Project Director Teresita Bagasao. “There needs to be a greater effort from both public and private sectors to reduce stigma and increase awareness of HIV, available services and safer sex practices.”

HIV, or the human immunodeficiency virus, can be acquired through body fluids such as semen, vaginal fluid, blood, and breast milk. Recent data in the Philippines shows that 96% of newly reported cases were acquired through sexual exposure. The virus affects humans by damaging immune system cells, making it harder to fight off other illnesses or diseases. If left untreated, HIV infections can develop into AIDS.