261. Protect Yourself against HIV/AIDS
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that destroys the immune system, leaving the person unable to fight certain types of infection or cancer. HIV also attacks the central nervous system, causing mental and neurological problems. The virus is carried in bodily fluids (semen, vaginal secretions, and blood).
Certain activities are likely to promote contracting HIV. High-risk activities include:
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•Unprotected* anal, oral and/or vaginal sex except within a monogamous relationship in which neither partner has HIV.
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•Unprotected* sex with many partners or with a partner who has had many partners. Unprotected sex when drunk or high on drugs.
*Unprotected means without correctly using a latex or polyurethane condom from start to finish for every sex act. Doing this does not get rid of the risk entirely, but greatly reduces it. Male latex or polyurethane condoms are preferred.
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•Sharing needles and/or “the works” when injecting a drug.
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•Pregnancy and delivery if the mother is infected with HIV (this puts the child at risk).
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•Having had blood transfusions especially before 1985, unless tested negative for HIV.
HIV is not spread through touching, hugging, or (dry) kissing a person with HIV. A cough, sneeze, tears, sweat, or using a hot tub or public restroom does not spread HIV, either.
Take these steps to avoid contracting HIV.
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•Unless you are in a long-term, monogamous relationship, in which neither you nor your partner has HIV, use latex or polyurethane condoms during sexual intercourse and genital-to-genital contact.
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•Limit sexual partners. Sexual contact with many persons increases the risk for HIV if no protection is used, especially with anyone whom you know or suspect has had multiple sex partners or engaged in high-risk behaviors. (If you have had sex with someone you suspect is HIV positive or has AIDS, see your doctor.)
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•Don’t share needles and/or “the works” when injecting any kind of drug.
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•Avoid sexual activities that could tear the vagina or rectum (such as anal intercourse).
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•If possible, donate your own blood for planned surgery.
Early symptoms of HIV/AIDS include fatigue, loss of appetite, diarrhea, weight loss, persistent dry cough, and night sweats. But symptoms may not show up for eight to eleven years after a person is infected with the virus.
Screening tests for HIV are available through doctors’ offices, clinics, and health departments.
You can also find out your HIV status using an over-the-counter home collection test kit and counseling service, such as Home Access. Results are kept anonymous and confidential.
