Facts about HIV/AIDS everyone should know

What is world AIDS day?

World AIDS Day takes place on 1 December each year. It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV.

Anyone can get HIV

One misconception that stubbornly endures is that only unprotected intercourse can get HIV.

Pregnant women can pass the virus the their unborns 

A person who is pregnant and has HIV/AIDS can pass HIV to their unborn child, and can also transmit the virus during childbirth and when breastfeeding, the CDC says.

You can have HIV and not know It

It’s estimated that about one in eight people with HIV don’t know they have it.

You can’t get HIV from insect bites or stings, hugging, shaking hands, or sharing toilets or dishes, according to the CDC.

You do not get HIV through these activities

There are several ways to prevent HIV transmission

HIV is transmitted by the exchange of bodily fluids such as semen, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and blood, the best way to stave off infection is to always practice safer sex and avoid sharing drug paraphernalia like needles.

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is medicine to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. The CDC advises you to alert a healthcare provider or an emergency room doctor and begin PEP within 72 hours. The sooner you start, the better.

AIDS can be managed