HIV and AIDS

As the most feared STD, we hear lots about HIV and AIDS, but do you really know what they are and how they can affect you?

What causes AIDS?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks your body's immune system by infecting your protective white blood cells, which eventually leads to an inability to fight off illness. The end product of becoming infected with HIV is AIDS (Acquired Immuno-deficiency Syndrome).

How do you catch HIV and AIDS?
Discovered over 20 years ago, the virus has infected millions of people of both sexes, and all races and ages. It's passed through bodily fluids (blood, semen, vaginal secretions and even breast milk) which makes unprotected sex, sharing of needles, childbirth and French kissing a no-no.

How do you know you've got it?
You might experience no symptoms immediately, but after a time (usually around three months) you may get a flu-like illness, which is caused by the body trying to defend itself. This will go away and you may then remain symptom-less for many years but even if you have no symptoms you're still infected. In the later stages of the virus other signs to look out for are fever, weight loss, diarrhoea and fatigue. By this time the immune system is badly damaged, making it easier to catch infections like shingles, pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), tuberculosis, cytomegalovirus, fungal infections and cancers.

How do you treat it?
Unfortunately you can't cure it, but early detection from a blood test and the right drugs can help you delay the symptoms, fight off several illness that can develop in the later stages and help stop the spread of the virus. If you're worried click here to find your nearest clinic for a blood test.

How can you protect yourself?
Use a condom for any intercourse and oral sex and a dental dam for cunnilingus. Basically if you want to be sure, avoid sex, oral sex and French kissing with anyone who could be infected, and avoid sharing of needles.