It is important to know the facts and complications associated with HIV
HIV and AIDS have had a global impact, spanning over two decades and affecting India as well. Insufficient availability of crucial medications such as antiretrovirals can result in drug-resistant strains and impede overall progress. It is vital to be aware of essential facts about HIV/AIDS to comprehend personal risks and engage in sensitive conversations with those affected. Now, let's explore 10 key facts everyone should be aware of.
HIV and AIDS are different
HIV is a virus targeting the immune system, specifically CD4 cells, weakening the body's defenses. AIDS is the advanced stage of untreated HIV, marked by severe immune system damage.
Anyone can get HIV
HIV doesn't spread through everyday physical contact like handshakes or hugs. It's only transmitted through specific fluids—blood, semen, breast milk, pre-ejaculate, rectal fluids, and vaginal fluids. Saliva does not transmit HIV. For transmission, these fluids must contact mucous membranes in the rectum, vagina, penis, or mouth. Transmission can also happen through broken skin or sharing needles with someone who has HIV. It's essential to clear up misconceptions and know that anyone can potentially contract HIV through these specific ways.
Prevention is key
Staying safe is crucial in preventing HIV. Use condoms correctly and consistently, get regular tests, and consider preventive measures like Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for effective prevention.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Spotting HIV early is vital for timely action. Regular testing helps individuals understand their status, access proper medical care, and take steps to avoid further transmission.
Possibility of Skin Disorders
HIV/AIDS weakens the immune system, making people more prone to diseases, including skin issues caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, or treatments. HIV attacks the immune system, potentially leading to AIDS if untreated. Testing is the only way to know if you have HIV, and management involves using topical steroids and antiretroviral drugs for skin relief and prevention.
Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission
To prevent passing HIV to their babies during childbirth, pregnant individuals with HIV can take medication.
Facing stigma
People with HIV often deal with social stigma and discrimination, affecting their access to healthcare and support. The LGBTQ community deals with more stigma due to discrimination by society. It's important to challenge misunderstandings and create a caring environment.
HIV from insect bites and toilets
You won't get HIV from insect bites, hugs, handshakes, sharing toilets or dishes, closed-mouth kisses, or contact with sweat or tears of an infected person. Simply working or spending time with someone who has HIV or AIDS doesn't transmit the virus.
HIV/AIDS is treatable
ART(Anti Retroviral Therapy) reduces the amount of HIV in the blood (viral load). It can make the viral load so low that a test can't detect it (undetectable viral load). If you have an undetectable viral load, you will not transmit HIV through sex. This is also known as Undetectable = Untransmittable.
A person is more likely to get HIV from anal sex than vaginal sex
In fact, the risk may be as much as 18 times greater than that of vaginal sex because the rectum is lined with only a single layer of cells so it is very fragile and prone to breakage.
Separate facts from fictions
In summary, sharing accurate information about AIDS is important. Knowing these key facts allows people to make informed choices, participate in preventing HIV/AIDS, and strive for a world where it's not a widespread health crisis. Increasing awareness and understanding can help reduce the impact of HIV/AIDS and ensure proper support and care for those affected.
(Author: Dr Kalpana Erande, a sexologist who also shares content related to her expertise on coto)