Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey once more stressed the practice of positive sexual health amid the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
The minister made his comments yesterday during the annual Love, Health & Fitness Fair at the Warrens Office Complex in Warrens, St Michael.
Emphasising his recent comments addressing reckless behaviour on the part of the public, Humphrey encouraged the public to remember that sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS were still a possible consequence.
“A few days ago, I would have shared some thoughts in relation to what I think is reckless sexual behaviour. And I would just wish to clarify, I’m not talking about what people do when they get to it. But the reality is we’re talking about people having multiple partners, people having unprotected sexual activity, or people engaging in sex without knowing the other person’s status or their own status.
“And I want to, again, take this opportunity during Love Safely Week to remind Barbadians that HIV is still pretty much part of our reality and to take care of their health,” he said.
Free checks
Yesterday’s fair transformed the parking lot of the Warrens Complex, which was adorned with tents and booths showcasing a range of awareness initiatives and health care offerings.
There were free checks for blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic ailments. The National HIV/AIDS Commission was also on site, educating the public about safe sex via educational board games.
Free haircuts were offered courtesy of the Man Aware collective, which focuses on raising awareness of HIV among men.
Spa services were also available for those who needed a moment to unwind – either with a pedicure or massage.
Humphrey praised the work of the event coordinators for achieving what he said was a worthwhile initiative, adding that the turnout was a positive sign of the public’s interest in their health.
“I think it’s important that the country continues to have a conversation around HIV and AIDS and other aspects of STIs that are still infectious in Barbados. But I also think the ministry is trying to have a more serious conversation around wellness and around well-being. These are the things that we try to push today,” he said. (JRN)
