There can be confusion surrounding the basic facts of HIV/AIDS, partially due to myths spread as a result of Stigma and Discrimination. Often people are scared to ask for the truth and bad education surrounding the virus will increase the rate of infection. Here are some of the basic facts about the virus and where to find out more.
There are currently 33.4 million people living with HIV globally, two thirds of which live in sub-Saharan Africa (UNAIDS)
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus which attacks the immune system. To begin with HIV is symptomless.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Virus) is the later stage of HIV where the immune system has become severely damaged and cannot fight off infection without the help of anti-retroviral medicines. AIDS related deaths happen when these other infections cannot be halted by the weak immune system.
How is HIV/AIDS Spread?
HIV/AIDS is spread through bodily fluids such as blood and seminal fluid. The virus is most commonly transmitted via unprotected sex and sharing needles. HIV could be transmitted via oral sex but the risk of infection is extremely low.
How it isn’t?
HIV cannot be passed on by saliva, sweat and urine. Kissing and normal social contact with unbroken skin will not transmit HIV, nor will sharing towels, cutlery, bedding and toilets.
Armed with the right information about HIV/AIDS we can simultaneously fight the rate of new infections and Stigma and Discrimination.
For further information:
http://www.tht.org.uk/informationresources/hivandaids/
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/HIV/Pages/Introduction.aspx
http://www.avert.org/oral-sex.htm
