About HIV/AIDS
Whatis HIV?
H uman - This virus needs the human body to survive. The virus is passed from one person (human) to another.
I mmunodeficiency - Immuno refers to the immune system. This is the system in the body that keeps us healthy. Deficiency means that something is not working properly or normally. When HIV enters the body it weakens the immune system. The immune system is not able to work properly to fight off illnesses and diseases.
V irus - Very tiny being that makes copies of itself by invading other cells.
HIV gets into the body and begins to weaken the immune system. The immune system fights illnesses.
What is AIDS?
A cquired - Means to get. The body is exposed to HIV and gets infected.
I mmune - Referring to the system that fights diseases and infections.
D eficiency - Not working properly. Unable to fight off germs and bacteria to keep the body healthy.
S yndrome - A group illnesses which indicate a certain kind of disease. Only a doctor can diagnose when HIV has developed to AIDS.
AIDS is the later stage of HIV. At this stage the immune system is unable to fight illnesses properly.
Transmission
How does the virus get into the body?
The virus gets into the bloodstream from another person who has HIV through an infected person's semen, vaginal fluid or blood.
By unprotected sexual intercourse
By sharing needles
If blood was received before 1985
A mother with HIV may pass it to her baby
While she is pregnant, at birth or when she breastfeeds
How does the virus not get into the body?
Casual contact such as talking or eating with someone who has HIV
Handshakes, hugs or kisses
Coughs or sneezes
Swimming pools
Toilet seats, showers, bath tubs
Bed sheets, towels
Forks, spoons, cups, food
Sharing equipment, telephones, computers, or
Insects or animals
Prevention
- Education
- Absitnence
- Have safer sex by:
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- Always using condoms
- Get to know your partners drug and sexual history
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- Avoid sharing needles
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- Use a new needle
- Clean needles
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