FAST FACTS:

• HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. If untreated, a person’s immune system will eventually be completely destroyed.

• AIDS refers to a set of symptoms and illnesses that occur at the very final stage of HIV infection.

• Testing regularly for HIV means you can access treatment if you need it and stay healthy.

Basic facts about HIV:

• HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus.
  

• There is effective antiretroviral treatment available so people with HIV can live a normal, healthy life.
  

• The earlier HIV is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can start – leading to better long term health. So regular testing for HIV is important.
  

• HIV is found in semen, blood, vaginal and anal fluids, and breast milk.
  

• HIV cannot be transmitted through sweat, saliva or urine.
  

• Using male condoms or female condoms during sex is the best way to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
  

• If you inject drugs, always use a clean needle and syringe, and never share equipment.
  

• If you are pregnant and living with HIV, the virus in your blood could pass into your baby’s body, or after giving birth through breastfeeding. Taking HIV treatment virtually eliminates this risk.

Basic facts about AIDS:

• AIDS stands for acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
  

• AIDS is also referred to as advanced HIV infection or late-stage HIV.
  

• AIDS is a set of symptoms and illnesses that develop as a result of advanced HIV infection which has destroyed the immune system.
  

• Treatment for HIV means that more people are staying well, with fewer people developing AIDS.
  

Although there is currently no cure for HIV with the right treatment and support, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives. To do this, it is especially important to take treatment correctly and deal with any possible side-effects.

What is the link between HIV and AIDS?

AIDS stands for acquired immune deficiency syndrome.

AIDS is the name used to describe a combination of potentially life-threatening infections & cancers, which can develop when someone’s immune system has been damaged by HIV.

You cannot catch AIDS & there is no AIDS test. HIV causes AIDS & it is HIV that can be passed on.

Being diagnosed with AIDS means different things for different people. Just because someone has AIDS does not mean they will die – but it is important to have medical care & treatment.

Treatment with combinations of anti-HIV drugs can keep the immune system strong, & because of this the number of people who are diagnosed with AIDS has fallen. Thanks to effective HIV treatment, many people who developed AIDS are now very well & can look forward to a long & healthy life.