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The stigma of HIV+ people and touch is very much alive, according a new study.

But Casey House is determined to smash the stigma with its ongoing campaign to challenge those misconceptions. The study, commissioned by the hospital that specializes in HIV/AIDS care, found half of Canadians and almost half of Americans would be nervous to find out they’d come in contact with someone living with HIV/AIDS.

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“For the people who lived through the crisis of the ’80s when the diagnosis of HIV was really a death sentence within 24-48 months — I think that fear really continues with transmission of HIV and how it is passed from person to person,” said Joanne Simons, CEO of Casey House.

“The infection rates are only still slightly down from 40 years later. It’s the only disease that has this kind of stigma attached with it. It’s based in fear and lack of education. Our clients report feeling stigmatized on a daily basis.”