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What is AIDS?
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, or AIDS, is a catch-all term for
a number of opportunistic infections and cancers which affect people
in the later stages of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV can be
transmitted through blood and semen. A person can contract HIV by having
unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected partner or by sharing
needles. A newborn can also get HIV from its infected mother.
What can I do to protect myself?
The best way to protect oneself is to always use a barrier method (i.e.
condoms) when engaging in any sexual act, including oral sex. Additionally,
always be sure that needles are clean and sterile before using them.
How does HIV lead to AIDS?
The incubation period between when HIV is transmitted and when AIDS
appears is usually between three and twelve years. HIV attacks and kills
CD4+ T-cells, a type of white blood cells that are an essential part
of the body's defense against infection. A healthy person has between
800 and 1200 CD4+ T-cells per microliter of blood. People with AIDS
generally have less than 200. Whereas ordinarily a healthy person could
quickly fight certain illnesses and infections, the immune system of
a person with HIV has deteriorated, thus causing serious complications.
Eventually, the body's inability to combat ailment can become fatal.
Where can I go to be tested and receive support?
There are many places that you can go to be tested. Many hospitals offer
confidential testing and counseling services. Additionally, Planned
Parenthood can provide you with information about testing and counseling
services. Here at SSIS we can give you referrals for both testing and
counseling.
Is there any treatment?
Currently, there is no cure for HIV. Many drugs are available that can
prolong the life of the patient. These drugs are often termed an AIDS
"cocktail." In
addition, prophylaxis exists, but it is only available to health care
professionals. This treatment is most effective when started immediately
and can only be started within the first two days of potential infection.
Termed post exposure prophylaxis (PEP), a mixture of various drugs are
given to the patient for an extended period of time to help prevent
infection. This treatment is not 100% effective and it should be re-iterated
that it is only available for occupational hazards.
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