We visit Ginan-Higashi primary school in Ginan town to give a Aids Preventive lecture for the 6th grade children. We have been visiting them every year since 3 years ago.

In the lecture, we explained about the difference of the meanings of HIV and AIDS, window period after HIV infection and how to prevent the infection by using panels and some tools.

The children were very active and enthusiastic about making so many questions, and we felt pushed for time.  

Their questions were very smart with sharp point of view and showed that they were listening very tentatively.  We really felt that AIDS preventive education is never too early for 6th grade children.  

----- Some of the questions we received from children and the answers -----　

Q.　Where was? In which country? 

A.　The first AIDS patients were found in New York and Los Angeles in United State in early 1980s, when doctors began seeing young men dying with diseases of aged persons. Some people say that HIV/AIDS originates in Africa. 

Q.　 Was Prof. Montagnier the first person who developed Anti-Aids drug? 

A.　 No, he isn't. He first discovered the causal virus of Aids. Because of his discovery, Anti-Aids drug became possible.  If I'm worried about HIV infection, what should I do?

Q.　 How do I know if I am infected by HIV or not? 

A.　 Please call a local public health office to make an appointment of HIV test. Anonymous test is available for free of charge. You can get result in one hour or so after testing. 

Q.　 What symptom would I have if I am infected by HIV?  

A.　 You may have Flu-like symptoms, but you will feel better soon, so usually you wouldn't really notice it.  

There is currently no cure for HIV and no vaccine to prevent people from becoming infected. However, treatment can help most people with HIV to live much longer and feel well.

Q.　 What should I do if I find out that I am infected? 

A.　 There are hospitals to help most people with HIV to live much longer and feel qwll with proper treatments. Public health office will tell to where you can get such treatment. We are lucky because we live in Japan. There are countries with difficulty to receive treatments.