HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, and it is the virus that causes AIDS. What HIV does is it destroys certain blood cells that are crucial to the normal function of the immune system, which defends the body against illness.
AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome and this happens when the immune system is weakened by HIV to the point where a person develops any number of diseases or cancers.
How is HIV transmitted:
· By a person having unprotected sex without a condom with someone that has HIV
· By sharing a needle to inject drugs or sharing drug works with someone who has HIV
· By having a mother who was infected with HIV when you were born
· From blood transfusions
· Also by breastfeeding if mother is infected with HIV
How to prevent yourself from getting HIV:
-Abstain from having sex
-Use condoms correctly and consistently
-Use protection during oral sex
-Remain in a monogamous relationship
(Have one sex partner)
Treatment
NOTE: There are no cures for HIV/AIDS. If these problems occur tell your doctor right away. There are medications that are available to aid in controlling certain symptoms.
Myths
You cannot become infected with HIV through:
-Giving blood to a blood bank
-Everyday contact with infected people at work, school, church, etc.
-Preparing or serving food or beverages
-Using toilets, shaking hands, sharing utensils, sharing telephones, clothing, etc.
-Sweat, tears, cough, urine, sneeze
-Kissing
-Mosquito bites
-Swimming Pool
-No one is an exception when it comes to HIV/AIDS
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