FAQ

Q: What does HIV/AIDS stand for?

A: Human immune deficinecy virus. Acquired immuno deficiency sydrome.

Q: Who can contract HIV/AIDS?

A: Anyone can contract HIV/AIDS regardless of age, gender, race, nationality, sexual orientation.

Q: Who is at greater risk of contracting HIV/AIDS?

A: People at greater risk for contracting HIV/AIDS are those that have unprotected sex with multiple partners and those who share needles.

Q: Is HIV/AIDS fatal?

A: HIV/AIDS is fatal but it takes a long time for it to become fatal. HIV/AIDS is not what kills the subject. Rather it kills the subject’s immune system, so the subject is not able to fight off other diseases and infections. These secondary infections and opportunistic diseases are what kill the subject.

Q: Is there a cure for HIV/AIDS?

A: There is no cure for HIV/AIDS but there are medications that can increase the number of years for an infected person. These medications can add an average of about 20 years if taken regularly and in conjunction with a healthy diet.

Q: Is the medication easily accesible or cheap?

A: The medication is not cheap. But depending on the country, there are programs that help people who cannot afford the medication.

Q: Is it safe to breastfeed if a mother is infected with HIV/AIDS?

A: Breastfeeding while infected puts the child at risk. But, the World Health Organization suggests that a mother breastfeed unless they are able to afford formula and food for the baby. It is better to breastfeed than not because the child is still receiving the nutrients necessary for survival.

Q: What are the signs that someone has HIV/AIDS?

A: People who are infected with HIV/AIDS will not show symptoms and signs until they are very sick and close to death. There is no way of knowing that someone is infected except through a test.

Q: How can a person get tested?

A: If you live in the U.S.A, there are multiple different tests sites all over the country. To find one near you, click here.

Q: Are there support groups for poeple living with HIV/AIDS and their families?

A: There are many support groups. To find one near you, click here.