Myths
Unfortunately, there are still many myths about how a person can become infected with HIV. The following are NOT ways that you can become infected:
- Toilets
- Hugging
- Drinking after someone who is infected
- Kissing
- Mosquito bites
- Touching an infected person
- Breathing the same air of an infected person
Facts
HIV is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It does not discriminate based on sex, religion, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, sexual orientation, political views, or where a person lives. HIV is the virus that causes the body’s immune system to stop working properly. When the virus weakens the body’s immune system, other diseases and illnesses can cause the person to become very ill – or even die. A diagnosis of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is given when a person’s HIV viral load reaches a certain level and their immune system is significantly compromised (both determined by lab work). Additionally, AIDS is diagnosed when a person with HIV develops other opportunistic infections due to a high viral load and a suppressed immune system.
The best hope for stopping the transmission of HIV is 1) early detection via testing, 2) safer sex practices, and 3) increasing awareness and knowledge of HIV & AIDS within our community. If a person DOES test positive for HIV, there are several treatment options that can keep the virus in check – and help to prevent a person from developing AIDS or becoming ill. Getting access to high quality medical care is key in helping people with HIV stay healthy and alive.
The following four body fluids are where HIV lives in the body – and are the 4 routes of transmission:
- Blood
- Semen
- Vaginal Fluid
- Breast Milk
Putting a barrier between YOU and these fluids is the best way to prevent the transmission of HIV from person to person. Examples of barriers are: condoms & dental dams.
Clearing up Myths with Facts
Myth: Oral sex is safe.
Fact: Semen and vaginal fluid transmit HIV. By taking these fluids into your body, you are potentially putting yourself at risk.
Myth: You cannot catch HIV from a woman.
Fact: HIV is spread through vaginal fluid. You can catch HIV from women.
Myth: Only gay people get HIV.
Fact: Anyone can get HIV. If you are having unprotected sex, you are at risk of contracting HIV. Heterosexual contact represents the second largest risk category for contracting HIV in northwest Louisiana.