The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the International medical community were shaken to learn over 100 delegates travelling to Melbourne for the AIDS 2014 conference were onboard flight MH17.
On behalf of all Australian GPs, the RACGP wishes to extend its thoughts to all families, loved ones and colleagues affected by the horrific MH17 tragedy, especially those of the 28 Australian’s reported to be onboard.
RACGP President, Dr Liz Marles said the tragedy will have a devastating impact on the global community of HIV researchers, health workers, activists and those living with HIV and their families.
“When we lose people whose lives have been dedicated to saving the lives of others, it is truly a double loss.
“This tragedy will reverberate around the world. While the next week will be difficult for so many, the importance of the conference is now more pertinent.
“In recognition of the vital work undertaken by those that have lost their lives in this tragedy, we must use this opportunity to inspire a new generation of change agents and reinforce our commitment to curbing the global HIV epidemic,” said Dr Marles.
Commencing on Sunday, the AIDS 2014 conference is the premier gathering for those working in the field of HIV, as well as policy makers, persons living with HIV and other individuals committed to ending the epidemic and is expected to be attended by over 12,000 delegates from more than 200 countries.
The AIDS 2014 conference has released a public statement confirming the event will continue to go ahead as planned and will include opportunities to reflect and remember those that were lost.
The RACGP will be represented at the AIDS 2014 conference by Adjunct Associate Professor Marilyn McMurchie (OAM), a Sydney GP, former President of the Australasian Society for HIV Medicine and RACGP representative on the committee overseeing the implementation of the New South Wales Ministry of Health’s strategy to eliminate HIV infection.
The RACGP continues to strive to increase awareness, breakdown stigma, normalise testing and generate greater interest and discussion around HIV.