What is HIV?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. If untreated, HIV can lead to the disease AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
What is AIDS?
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the final stage of HIV infection. It occurs when the body's immune system is badly damaged and becomes vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.
How is HIV transmitted?
HIV is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids from a person who has HIV, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The most common ways HIV is transmitted include unprotected sex and sharing needles.
How can I protect myself from HIV?
You can protect yourself by using condoms correctly every time you have sex, getting tested regularly, reducing the number of sexual partners, never sharing needles, and taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) if you are at high risk.
Is there a cure for HIV/AIDS?
There is currently no cure for HIV/AIDS, but it can be managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART helps people with HIV live longer, healthier lives and reduces the risk of transmission.
What is antiretroviral therapy (ART)?
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) involves taking a combination of HIV medicines (called an HIV treatment regimen) every day. ART helps control the virus and prevent it from progressing to AIDS.
How often should I get tested for HIV?
The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. Those at higher risk should get tested more frequently, such as once a year.
What should I do if I test positive for HIV?
If you test positive for HIV, it's important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible to start ART. Early treatment can improve your health and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
What does "undetectable" mean?
Being "undetectable" means that the amount of HIV in the blood is so low that it can't be detected by standard tests. People with an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV through sex.
Can I still have a healthy relationship if I have HIV?
Yes, people with HIV can have healthy relationships. Open communication, regular medical care, and adherence to ART can help maintain health and prevent transmission.