How is HIV contracted?
HIV is transmitted through oral, vaginal, or anal sex without condoms, or by sharing needles or syringes. If a woman is infected with HIV, she can transmit the virus to the baby during childbirth and through breast milk.
How is HIV NOT contracted?
HIV is not transmitted through saliva, kissing, hugs, sharing a toothbrush, or mosquito or bedbug bites.
Why is it important to get tested for HIV
HIV medication is very effective, and you can live a long and healthy life with proper treatment. It is also important because starting treatment protects your partner and prevents transmission.
Is there a cure for HIV?
There is no cure for HIV, but if you start treatment and take it every day as prescribed by the doctor and achieve an undetectable viral load, HIV is controlled and cannot be transmitted. Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U=U).
What if I don't have US papers or health insurance and test positive for HIV?
Treatment for HIV is completely free regardless of your immigration status. Your results are confidential, and you will receive the same treatment as someone who has insurance or US papers.
What can I do to protect myself from HIV?
Currently, there are more tools than ever to prevent HIV. In addition to limiting the number of sexual partners, using condoms correctly every time you have sex, and not sharing needles, you could also take advantage of newer medications, such as
pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and
post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
What is PEP?
Post-exposure prophylaxis (or PEP) means taking antiretroviral medications (ARVs) after potential exposure to HIV to prevent infection. PEP should only be used in emergency situations and should be started within 72 hours after potential exposure to HIV. Every hour counts.
