HIV and AIDS
HIV is a virus that damages the body's defence systems so it can't fight infection very well. Sometimes having HIV can also make someone ill with a range of diseases, known as AIDS.
Most people have heard of HIV and AIDS. Some people find it confusing or frightening, and not something that they want to talk or think about. But it's important to know about it so that you can protect yourself.
What is HIV and what is AIDS?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that damages the body's defence systems so it cannot fight infection.
Someone with HIV is described as 'HIV positive'. HIV causes, over a period of time, a range of different diseases known as Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
How do you get HIV?
HIV can be passed on when infected bodily fluid, such as blood or semen, is passed into an uninfected person. Semen is the liquid which is released from a man's penis during sex which carries sperm. It can be infected with HIV or AIDS when someone is HIV positive or is carrying the AIDS virus. This can happen during unprotected sex. For example when two people have sex without using a condom when one partner is already infected, or between drug users who inject and share needles.
It can't be transmitted by things like coughing, sneezing, kissing, sharing a toilet seat, swimming pools, sweat and tears.
Who can get HIV?
HIV can affect or infect anyone whether they are gay or straight, male or female, black or white, young or old. Anyone is at risk if they have unprotected sex or inject drugs.
How do you know if you are HIV positive?
People who have HIV can look and feel healthy for years. It can take as many as 10 to 15 years for HIV to destroy the body's immune system. The only way of knowing is by having a blood test to check for the virus.
How can I protect myself from HIV and AIDS?
- Use a condom when you have sex. Condoms also offer some protection against other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy.
- People who inject themselves should never share needles.
Can HIV or AIDS be cured?
At present, there is no vaccine or cure for HIV. However, anti HIV drugs are available, and taking a combination of anti-HIV drugs can slow down the damaging effect of HIV on the immune system. There is still no vaccine to stop people becoming infected with HIV - but using condoms is a good way of protecting yourself if you are having sex.
If you are worried about HIV or AIDS, you can call us to talk about your worries.