HIV/AIDS Basics

Before we can stop any epidemic, we first have to recognize the magnitude of the disease. HIV is still a threat across the United States. And even though there are treatments to help people with HIV live longer than ever before, AIDS is still a significant health issue. Surprised? Get the facts:

What is HIV/AIDS?

HIV-infected T-cells under high magnification HIV Stands for Human Immundeficiency Virus. It's similar to other viruses, such as colds and the flu, with one important difference - the human body cannot get rid of HIV.
  • What is HIV?
  • What are the stages of HIV?
  • What is AIDS?
  • How is HIV spread?
  • Who is at risk for HIV?
  • Can you tell if a person has HIV by looking at them?
  • Is there a cure for HIV?
  • Hasn't Magic Johnson been cured of HIV?
  • Are the HIV cures I read about on the Internet real?

    • How is HIV Spread?

    Male Couple sitting together on a chair
  • How contagious is HIV?
  • Can I get HIV from a blood transfusion?
  • I have HIV, I take medication and my partner is not infected. What is the chance that he/she might be infected through sex?
  • What factors may make it more likely to spread HIV through sex?
  • Can HIV still be transmitted is if both partners are infected?
  • How effective are latex condoms in the fight against HIV?

    • How can I protect myself and others?

    Close-up of two colored condoms on a bed
  • How do you prevent HIV?
  • How effective are latex condoms in the fight against HIV?
  • What kind of lubricant should I use with a latex condom?
  • Should I use condoms with spermicide?
  • Are health care workers at risk of getting HIV on the job?
  • Drug and Alcohol Use
  • Are there medications I can take that will keep me from getting HIV if I am exposed?
  • If I think I have been exposed to HIV, what are my options?
  • Are health care workers at risk of getting HIV on the job? ?

    • Getting tested for HIV

    Stethoscope, close up
  • Who should get tested for HIV?
  • Where can I get tested?
  • I think I have been exposed to HIV. Do I need to get tested right away?
  • What types of tests are there for HIV?
  • What should I expect when I go in for an HIV test?
  • What's a confirmatory test?
  • I had unprotected sex with someone who is HIV positive, but my HIV test was negative. Does that mean I don't have HIV?

    • After an HIV Test - positive or negative?

    Hispanic Latino couple in a care reading and writing
  • I tested negative. Now what?
  • I tested positive. What should I do now?

    • Treatment

    DHAP staffer in CDC lab
  • Is there a cure for HIV?
  • What treatment options are available for someone living with HIV infection?
  • Can I get HIV treatment if I have no health insurance coverage?
  • Will existing HIV treatments allow me to live a long, productive life?
  • How can I be certain that my HIV treatment is working?
  • Should I follow a specific diet while taking treatment for HIV infection?

    • Living with HIV/AIDS

    African American doctor with patient
  • What does antiretroviral therapy do? How do I know if it's working?
  • What is a viral load?
  • What does it mean when the viral load is undetectable?
  • Are the HIV cures I read about on the Internet real?