HIV

It was in 1981 that AIDS, or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome was recognized in France and the United States. AIDS is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and tends to break down the immunity of the body and it is this that leads to AIDS.

This HIV is such that it can lie hidden in the body for as long as 10 years without any symptoms, leading to easy infection of others. It lives in white blood cells and sexual fluids of humans and can spread through sexual intercourse, needle sharing amongst intravenous drug users, through blood transfusion and if the mother is infected, through pregnancy and birth.

HIV can also be transmitted by using the same razor blade or by having the body pierced or tattooed. However it is not transmitted by fondling, sneezing, kissing, cuddling, sharing eating and drinking vessels, cooking food or by shaking hands. Even saliva, sweat, faces, urine, tears, toilet seats, swimming pools, mosquito bites and telephones don’t promote transmittance of HIV.

Tips to prevent spread of HIV

The spread of HIV is controlled by blood banks screening the blood. In addition, you have to be particular in protecting yourself from dirty needles by being meticulous about using fresh, unopened needles. Moreover, use a latex condom properly during sex to prevent the transmission of HIV.

Condoms should never be reused and as HIV spreads faster through anal sex, it is better to use extra strong condoms with water based lubricants during this type of activity. No menstrual blood or semen should enter the mouth during oral sex. And remember that women are 10 times more prone to contacting HIV than a man and that HIV risk is greater if there is another sexually transmitted disease present in the body.

Unlike other sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea, syphilis and herpes, there is no vaccine or drug that can prevent or cure AIDS as the HIV mutates quickly. Though other STDs can lead to serious complications, they still have a cure.

Get a blood test done

As you never do know who is infected with HIV and when you may get infected with it, it is always better to practice safe sex. Don’t change partners; and if you do, make sure you practice safe sex. If for any reason you think that you may have contracted HIV from a partner, it is important to have a blood test done immediately.

It is the antibodies that are created to fight HIV that can be detected under a microscope. It usually takes about three weeks to six months for the antibodies to be produced; so if you think you are at risk, it is better to discuss matters with the doctor.

However if you are reluctant or embarrassed to discuss matters with anyone, you can always first find out if you have HIV by using an approved home check HIV kit that promises anonymity but guaranteed results. It is important to find out if you are infected to start treatment and also to avoid infecting others with the virus.

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