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HIV stands for Human Immuno-deficiency Virus. The virus attacks the body’s immune system and makes it vulnerable to various infections. People who contract HIV may look healthy and not even know that they have the virus, but they can still pass it on to others.
What Is AIDS?
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is caused by HIV. It occurs
when the number of immune system cells falls drastically low and the body
can no longer fight off certain ‘opportunistic’ infections.
The onset of AIDS can take up to ten years. Antiretroviral medication can
prolong the time between HIV infection and the onset of AIDS and not everyone
who contracts HIV will develop AIDS. There is currently no cure for AIDS.
How is HIV Transmitted?
HIV is transmitted through HIV-infected bodily fluids. There are four proven
ways in which HIV can be passed from person to person:
- Unprotected sexual intercourse with a HIV positive person (vaginal, anal and possibly oral sex)
- Sharing injection needles and equipment with a HIV positive person when injecting drugs
- From mother to child- HIV can be transmitted from a HIV positive woman to her baby during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding. There are drugs that can greatly reduce the chances of this happening, but they are unavailable in much of the developing world.
- Injection or transfusion of blood products which were contaminated with the virus. In much of the world this is no longer a significant risk, as blood donations are routinely tested
You Cannot Get HIV By
- Hugging and kissing on the lips
- Sharing crockery and cutlery
- Shaking hands
- Using the same toilet facilities
- Coughing or sneezing
- Insect or animal bites
- Using the same laundry facilities
- Using swimming pools
For more facts and statistics on HIV and AIDS, click on www.avert.org
Information on HIV & AIDS support services can be found on www.hivireland.ie
