What you need to know about HIV
Below are some basic facts about HIV/AIDS followed by the dismantlement of some common myths that are not true. Also I have linked some resources for more information.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (H.I.V.) is the virus that causes AIDS.
HIV is spread by blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. This means you can get HIV from sex mainly anal and vaginal. The chances are a lot lower in oral sex. It can also be spread from mother to child through pregnancy delivery and/or breast milk, with advances in medicine this rarely occurs. Also sharing needles you can get HIV.
There are early symptoms associated with HIV which include flu like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and a fever. In fact some people's only symptom is a fever.
HIV will not show up in an antibody test for at least 3-6 months. When you take a mouth swab.
HIV test and the first blood lab they test to see if you body has created antibodies to fight the virus and not for the actual virus.
HIV can be prevented with proper condom use and also with the use of HIV medications. Latex condoms are the only type that prevent the spread of HIV.
There are treatments but no documented cure that is consistent. Its true some people have been able to cure their HIV. The cases are very unique and are being studied.
HIV positive people can have HIV negative babies and also keep their spouses negative as well.
The latest research states that if you have been undetectable for 6 months you are non infectious meaning you can spread the virus to others.
You can't get HIV from toilet seats, sharing utensils, touching or breathing.
HIV is not dormant, but there is a latent period where you can be symptom free, taking HIV medications can lengthen this time.
For More Information
If you are a woman with HIV and need support signup for this listing to get access to my support group for women living with HIV please find me on facebook!
Also I shared my story on YouTube check it out below.
