WHAT IS HIV?

HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV attacks the body's immune system (the body's defence against diseases). 

HIV INFECTION

Some people may experience symptoms of HIV infection a few days after being infected. These symptoms: fever, rash and a severe sore throat, occurring together, should always be considered a potential indication of HIV infection. However, some people may not experience these early symptoms. 

ARE HIV AND AIDS THE SAME?

No. When someone is described as living with HIV, they have the HIV virus in their body. A person is considered to have developed AIDS when the immune system is so weak it can no longer fight off a range of diseases with which it would normally cope.

CAN HIV BE CURED?

No, but treatment available now can keep the virus under control and the immune system functioning properly. People on HIV treatment can live healthy, active lives, although they may experience side effects from these treatments. If HIV is diagnosed late, treatment may be less effective in preventing the development of AIDS.

HOW IS HIV TRANSMITTED?

HIV can be passed on through infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids or breast milk. The most common ways HIV is passed on are:· Sex without a condom with someone living with HIV · Sharing infected needles, syringes or other injecting drug equipment · From an HIV-positive mother (to her child) during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.

CAN YOU GET HIV FROM ORAL SEX?

Oral sex carries a much lower risk than vaginal or anal sex, but HIV can still be passed on through cuts or ulcers in the mouth if they come into contact with infected bodily fluids.

CAN YOU GET HIV FROM KISSING?

No. HIV cannot be passed on through:· Kissing or touching · Spitting, coughing or sneezing · Toilet seats, swimming pools, or shared facilities or utensils