A8: : as important that family support is the Latinx community may experience cultural & structural barriers to it. Educating the community at large is necessary to destigmatize hiv. Using proper language, clinicians can reduce machismo, homophobia, & transphobia #NHMAHIVCHAT

Thank you to the National Hispanic Medical Association for organizing thus Twitter Chat. LatinoCommissionAIDS and NLAAD are grateful for the collaboration

There's no cure for HIV/AIDS yet. But there are medicines that can control HIV and prevent complications. Everyone diagnosed with HIV should take antiretroviral therapy medicines. This is true no matter what stage the disease is in or what the complications are.

Welcome everyone to our 'National Latine AIDS Awareness Day X Chat'! We will begin chatting with HIV and AIDS experts shortly, and will focus on how to help break the stigma in Latine communities. Participate in the chat by using #NHMAHIVCHAT and #BreakingStigma! #SOMOSLOUD

Encourage individuals living with HIV/AIDS to share their stories. Personal narratives can humanize the issue and reduce fear and prejudice. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

Partner with influencers and celebrities who are respected in Latine communities to spread awareness and promote positive messages about HIV/AIDS. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A2: Many undocumented immigrants avoid seeking HIV testing and treatment due to fear of deportation. This fear can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can worsen health outcomes. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A2: The stigma associated with both HIV and undocumented status can deter individuals from seeking care2. This can lead to a lack of support and increased isolation. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A3: Ensuring that all patient information is kept confidential, and that privacy is strictly maintained. This can help alleviate fears of exposure and deportation. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A4: Media representations often perpetuate stigma and misinformation about HIV/AIDS. Sensationalized stories and negative portrayals can reinforce stereotypes and fears, leading to increased discrimination against those living with HIV/AIDS. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A5: Starting early: by introducing age-appropriate conversations about body, consent, and health early on we can normalize the topic and make it less taboo as children grow older. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A6: Some believe HIV can be transmitted through casual contact, such as hugging, sharing utensils, or using public facilities. This is not true; HIV is primarily spread through unprotected sex, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. #NLAAD

A6: Some believe that there is no effective treatment for HIV or that it is a death sentence. While there is no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can manage the virus effectively, allowing people to live long, healthy lives. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A7: Supporting Latine individuals living with HIV in rural areas requires a multifaceted approach that addresses unique challenges such as limited access to healthcare, transportation issues, and cultural barriers. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A7: Utilize telemedicine to provide remote consultations and follow-ups. This can help overcome transportation barriers and ensure consistent access to healthcare providers. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A8: Using clear, simple language and providing information in Spanish or the preferred language of the client. Avoid medical jargon #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A8: Ensuring there are follow-up opportunities to revisit and clarify information. Providing written materials that clients can take home and review. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

A9: Facilitating access to available resources by conducting community outreach and education programs to raise awareness about mental health resources and reduce stigma. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD

We have now reached the end of our 'National Latine AIDS Awareness Day X Chat'! Thank you to all of our partners for contributing to this conversation and helping to break the stigma in Latine communities! #NHMAHIVCHAT #BreakingStigma

A9: @hispoanicpsych ( American Society of Hispanic Hispanic Psychiatry) offers resources and support for mental health professionals working with Latinx clients. #NHMAHIUVCHAT #BREAKINGSTIGMA #NLAAD