Know

 TEXT ONLY » 

HIV 101
What is HIV? What is AIDS? Is there a difference between HIV and AIDS? How does someone get HIV? Who is at risk? What is the link between HIV and other STDs? How do I reduce my risk? Is there a vaccine or cure? Who should get tested? How does the test work? What kinds of tests are available? Is an HIV test part of my routine physical? Who has access to my results? How much does a test cost? Will I be tested if I donate blood? What if I test positive? I tested negative - now what?

What is HIV?

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus, commonly known as HIV, is spread when infected bodily fluids from one person enter another person’s body. Pre-cum, semen, vaginal fluids, blood, and breast milk are the fluids that can transmit the virus. Unprotected sex is the most common way people get infected with HIV in the U.S., followed by sharing needles.

HIV attacks the very cells which normally defend the body against illness. Eventually, HIV weakens the immune system to such an extent that the body can no longer fight off other diseases and infections.

NEXT»



Related

test_stdLowDown

 STD Low Down 

1 in 2 sexually active young people will get an STD by age 25. The good news - all are treatable and many are curable. Learn more about the most common STDs - from symptoms to treatment. GO»

test_testingFAQ

 STD Testing FAQs 

Everything you ever wanted to know about STD testing. All in one place. Get in the know about testing - from where to go to how much it will cost. GO»

whatworks

 What Works/What Doesn’t 

When it comes to preventing pregnancy and STDs, do you know What Works and What Doesn’t? Everything you needed to know. All in one place. GO»