Frequently Asked Questions

What is HIV? What is AIDS?

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. HIV infects cells within the human immune system and destroys or impairs their function. This virus causes a decline of the body’s immune system, which leads to the body no longer being able to fight off infections and diseases.

AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and is associated with the symptoms and infections of the immune system deficiency. HIV has been determined to be the underlying cause of AIDS, with AIDS being the most advanced stage of HIV infection.

How quickly do individuals infected with HIV develop AIDS?

The length of time varies depending on the individual. Typically, individuals develop signs of AIDS within 8-10 years if not treated. (Source: http://hivinsite.ucsf.edu/hiv?page=basics-oo-oz)

What are the symptoms of HIV/AIDS?

You cannot tell if someone has HIV or AIDS just from looking at them. HIV infection often does not cause any symptoms. Some individuals experience glandular fever-like illness upon becoming infected. Due to the gradual depletion and weakening of the immune system, the infected individual is more susceptible to various infections and cancers, which can eventually lead to the development of AIDS.

How can I become infected with HIV/AIDS?

HIV can be transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. It is transmitted through penetrative (anal or vaginal) sex, blood transfusion, sharing of contaminated needles, and between an infected mother and infant during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. Transmission through kissing on the mouth carries no risk as there is no evidence that the virus is spread through saliva. HIV is not transmitted from day-to-day contact in social settings, schools, or workplaces.

How can I prevent HIV/AIDS?

HIV can be prevented through monogamous relations between uninfected partners, non-penetrative sex, always using sterile and new needles and syringes, and ensuring blood and blood products are tested for HIV. When having sex with someone who is infected with HIV, properly using male or female condoms, or taking a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as recommended by your healthcare advisor is highly recommended to prevent infection.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can prevent the progression of HIV to AIDS by decreasing viral load in an HIV infected individual. Antiretroviral therapy also decreases the likelihood of an individual transmitting HIV to others through typical transmission means. Effective treatment can reduce the level of HIV in the body of a person living with HIV to the point where it is undetectable, which renders the virus untransmittable to other people.

Is there currently a cure for HIV/AIDS?

There is currently no cure for HIV; however, effective and innovative treatments exist.

Why, When, Where and How should I get tested for HIV/AIDS?

• There is a wide array of places where you can get tested, including private doctor offices, local health departments, AIDS Healthcare Foundation locations, family planning clinics, and HIV testing sites. HIV self-test kits exist; however, you should see your healthcare provider when a positive test occurs so appropriate treatment can be provided.

• An HIV test involves giving a small sample of blood or saliva. Results can be given in a timeframe from 20 minutes to a few weeks.

• It is recommended that you wait three months after possible exposure before being tested for HIV to allow for a detectable number of antibodies to the virus to exist.

• If you are infected with HIV, you can start treatment and potentially prolong your life. Additionally, getting tested allows you to take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of HIV to others.