News.Scotland.Org

January, 24

The number of HIV patients in Scotland are increasing at a great pace, it was noticed that last year the figures were quite higher than the last years. The figures released by the Health Protection Scotland (HPS) showed that during 2007 about 446 such HIV cases were reported, while in 2006 only 345 cases were there on record. This clearly shows how the HIV cases are on a high these days, even reports is there that the rise in heterosexual infections too is adding to the figures.

The reports and studies conducted have also highlighted the fact that the main cause of the transmission of this HIV is through sexual activities and only a few cases are reported by injecting drugs. Well if we look to the actual figures it tells that in 2007 188 HIV cases were reported in gay men and another 181 cases in heterosexual men and women. All these figures were far more than the previous year which is hinting toward a growing concern to control this upward trend.

To make sure people get the message of having safe sex and also to motivate people to come forward and go for HIV test, steps are taken. But then also about 5415 people are still living in Scotland with HIV. Glenn Codere, from HPS said these growing cases are a mix bag of positives and negatives, as on one hand we have the lowest number of HIV cases reported in drug users, but on other hand we have the highest number of cases at a whole. People need to understand the need for having safe sex to avoid risking their and their partners life from getting affected from HIV.

There need some concrete steps so that more and more people stand up and get tested for HIV and also should have enough knowledge about safe sex. Now to make the situation under control there is massive need to spread the message of safe sex and taking this seriously to get examined for HIV.

Scotland, Jan 24: One of the biggest musical festivals of Scotland is all set to begin in Dundee in June. The grand gala will set stage for more than 50 bands from across the world. Workshops that depict the influence of digital revolution will be conducted alongside the musical programmes. Earlier this festival was held in the year 2001 and it provides base for many skilful performers to showcase their talent.

The organiser of the event Shaun Arnold said: “I am eagerly waiting for Dundee to host the goNorth this year. You can not only feel the thrill of discovering new bands but also the strong sense of community. The city has a wealth of talent; this festival provides great venues for them to cater the needs of the enthusiastic audiences. One thing is for sure this musical festival will linger in your mind for a lifetime.”

The festival will be held across several city venues on 5th and 6th of June. Fringe events will be held from first of the month. Online registration of the musicians will be enabled and they will be short-listed by the panel of experts early in March.

While commenting on this Lord Provost John Letford said: “This is an extraordinary event for Dundee and will enhance the city’s growing reputation as a musical, cultural and artistic centre of excellence. It has already gained reputation by hosting Radio 1’s Big Weekend and the goNorth is also expected to turn out as a huge success.”

GoNorth musical festival will help to upgrade the profile of the musicians and Dundee with its diverse hub for the various art forms is an ideal place to host this impressive musical festival.