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National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day

Help spread awareness and join the fight against HIV on National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day - get informed, get tested, and show your support!

Tuesday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 18

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

May 18 marks National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, a day to recognize the efforts of those researching and developing vaccines for HIV/AIDS. This important day was established in 1997 by the US Department of Health & Human Services to raise awareness about prevention options for this virus. Since then, progress has been made towards finding an effective vaccine with more than 130 candidate vaccines being developed around the world. It's incredible how far we've come and we are excited to continue working together towards ending the global epidemic!

TIMELINE

National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day Timeline

Discovery of HIV/AIDS

The first cases of what would eventually be known as AIDS were reported in the United States.

Identification of HIV

Scientists identified the virus that causes AIDS, which was named the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Establishment of Awareness Day

National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day is established by the US Department of Health & Human Services to raise awareness about prevention options.

Vaccine Development Advancement

The RV144 clinical trial in Thailand became the first study to show that a safe and effective HIV vaccine was possible, demonstrating a modest reduction in HIV infection rates.

Preventative Treatment Approved

The FDA approved the first drug, Truvada for PrEP, to reduce the risk of HIV infection in uninfected individuals who are at high risk.

Potential HIV Cure

Researchers from the American Gene Technologies started Phase I clinical trial of a potential HIV cure based on gene therapy.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day

Educate yourself

Take some time to read up on HIV vaccine research and the progress that has been made. Learn about current clinical trials and ask questions, if you have them.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer

See if there are any volunteer opportunities in your area related to HIV vaccine awareness. You could help organize an event or provide support for those participating in clinical trials.

SPREAD

Spread the word

Share stories on social media about HIV vaccine research, progress, and success. Let your friends know what you have learned and encourage them to get involved.

DONATE

Donate

Support organizations doing important work around HIV vaccine research and development. Your donations can help make a difference.

ATTEND

Attend an event

Look for local events that are focused on raising awareness about HIV vaccines. From walks to lectures, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day is Important

It provides support for those living with HIV

On National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, we remember not only how to prevent this virus but also acknowledge those who are living with it every day. Prioritizing education and support services for those affected by HIV helps create a safe space in our society where they can live meaningful lives without fear.

It increases public awareness

National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day brings attention to the importance of vaccinating against HIV and raising public awareness so that we can reduce the risk of infection. This helps to encourage more people to receive the vaccine, which is a key step in preventing the spread of the virus in our community.

It encourages research into treatments

By recognizing National HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, we also recognize the importance of researching new treatments and medications that can help prevent or manage this disease. Researchers and scientists across the world continue to work hard to find even better ways to treat this virus, and any progress made is important for creating a healthier future for everyone.

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