FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions):

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a sexually transmitted disease. It can also be transmitted by sharing needles and/or syringes with someone who is infected with the virus. Pregnant women infected with HIV may infect their babies during the birth process, or through breast feeding after birth.

Healthcare workers have contracted the virus after being stuck with needles containing HIV-infected blood or, less frequently, after infected blood gets into an open cut or a mucous membrane.

At one time, it was frequently transmitted through receipt of transfusions with infected blood, however, this is now very rare in countries where blood is screened for HIV antibodies.

What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?

HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. Being infected with HIV does not mean that you have AIDS, however, if left untreated, HIVcan progress to AIDS.

How does HIV affect the immune system?

It damages or kills the immune system's cells, in turn, progressively destroying the body's ability to fight infection and certain cancers.

What types of treatments are available?

The recommended treatment is a combination of three or more medications in a regimen called HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy).

The types of medications used, and how much and how often you will need to take them depends on what medications you and your doctor choose.

If my CD4 count and viral load test results are greatly improved, does that mean that I have a possibility of being cured, and can I stop the medication?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for HIV. Even if your test results improve, you will still have the disease. Once you begin treatment, it may be necessary to continue taking medications for the rest of your life.

Can I get HIV if I get a tattoo?

HIV could be transmitted if instruments contaminated with blood are not sterilized or disinfected between clients. This applies to piercing of body parts as well.

Can it be transmitted via a mosquito or other insect bite if the insect has bitten an HIV infected person?

Studies conducted by researchers at Center for Disease Control and research by others has shown no evidence that HIV can be transmitted by insect bites.

Can I get HIV if I kiss someone with the virus?

Closed-mouth kissing is not a risk for transmission. Because of the potential for contact with blood during open-mouth kissing, there is a risk, however, it is believed to be very low.

Do condoms prevent transmission of HIV?

Only latex or polyurethane condoms provide a highly effective mechanical barrier against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. However, they must be used consistently and correctly.