According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “more than 1.1 million people in the United States are living with the HIV infection.” What’s more is that nearly 16% of those infected are unaware. This increases their chance of spreading the disease to a sexual partner, to someone they share needles with, or even from mother to baby.
There are a number of misconceptions about HIV and AIDS that we would like to address.
Only homosexuals contract HIV/AIDS.
The most rapid increase in HIV infection is actually being seen in women who have sex with men. The CDC reports that “new HIV infections among women are primarily attributed to heterosexual contact (84% in 2010) or injection drug use (16% in 2010).”
You can contract HIV/AIDS from touching an infected person.
HIV/AIDS is transmitted through blood, semen, rectal or vaginal fluid, and breast milk. Anyone sharing needles or having sexual relations (vaginal, anal, or oral) is at risk of contracting the disease. Although rare, women with the virus can pass it to their baby during childbirth or breastfeeding. The virus is not spread by insects, saliva, sweat, drinking fountains, or toilet seats.
HIV symptoms are obvious and always progress to AIDS.
Since HIV attacks your immune system, you may not have any visible symptoms. Typically, the symptoms resemble those of the flu. Many people do not begin showing symptoms until they are nearing the final stage of HIV, which is AIDS. It’s important to note that not every person infected with HIV will develop AIDS. AIDS is diagnosed if a person has a very low number of CD4 cells, certain cancers, or one or more opportunistic infections.
There is no cure for HIV/AIDS.
While this is true, medications can generally slow its progression. The medical community continues to research and develop treatments in the hopes of a cure.
If you fear you may have been exposed to HIV or AIDS, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible. Contact your Capital Women’s Care today.
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