What Is HIV?
It stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, a retrovirus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome). This virus attacks the human immune system. People who are infected with this virus could not notice any symptoms. The virus damages the immune system.
Over time the virus destroys the immune system in such a way that the infected person acquires various serious illnesses.
How is it spread?
The virus is found in the following body fluids; vaginal fluids, semen, breast milk and blood. Infection can only occur when body fluids from an infected person enter the blood stream of another person.
The most frequent ways people become infected:
Having vaginal or anal intercourse without a condom with an HIV/AIDS infected person.
Sharing needles or syringes with an infected person.
Being deeply punctured with a needle or surgical instrument contaminated with HIV.
Risk groups
Men who have sex with men
Persons who have multiple partners
Recommendations:
Unprotected sex between partners carries a high risk of HIV transmission, as 25 % of HIV positive men who have sex with men are unaware of their infection. This group is advised to be tested at least once a year, every 3 months if having unprotected sex with new or multiple partners.
Men and women having unprotected sex with new or multiple partners should be very careful, and have an HIV and STD test before having sex with each new partner.
Reduce the number of sexual relationships.
Use condoms consistantly
