PRESS RELEASE: HIV, inaccurate information, and stigmatizing language: Arcigay Salerno's complaint
As Arcigay Salerno, we believe it is necessary to intervene in reference to a recent case reported by some Campanian newspapers, which received wide media coverage, to draw attention to the language used in discussing HIV-related issues.
We will not delve into the merits of the legal case, as we do not know the details of the charges or the reasons for the sentence, and we believe it is essential to avoid any assessment of the facts.
The words used are often inappropriate, imprecise, and inconsistent with current scientific knowledge, contributing to a distorted and stigmatizing portrayal of people living with HIV. In particular, the terms "HIV" and "AIDS," which are not synonymous, are incorrectly and interchangeably used, in addition to the use of alarmist and sensationalist expressions that fuel fear and misinformation.
It is also highlighted that, in the current context, the term "HIV positive" is problematic and potentially misleading: following the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic, this expression has entered common usage to refer to multiple infectious conditions, losing specificity and contributing to further confusion if used inaccurately in relation to HIV.
Language is not a neutral element: imprecise or judgmental terms contribute to reinforcing stereotypes and prejudices, negatively impacting public perception and the quality of debate. A narrative built on inappropriate formulas or simplifications risks entrenching social stigma and discrimination.
Since 2019, the World Health Organization has reiterated the importance of accurate, evidence-based communication about HIV, emphasizing how information plays a central role in preventing stigma.
«"It's crucial that the media use accurate and up-to-date language when discussing topics like HIV," says Edoardo Palescandolo, Health Representative for Arcigay Salerno. "Wrong words aren't just inaccurate, they actually contribute to reinforcing stigma and discrimination.".
«"We ask editorial staff to be more responsible and attentive," adds Emanuele Avagliano, president of Arcigay Salerno. "Accurate reporting requires, first and foremost, respectful language, capable of conveying complexity without fueling fear or prejudice.".
For this reason, we urge editorial staff to be more careful and responsible in their use of terminology: accurate information necessarily requires precise, up-to-date, and respectful language, in line with scientific recommendations and the ethical principles of journalism.
Salerno, March 28, 2026
Arcigay Salerno Press Office
