HIV/AIDS (Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)

AIDS is the last stage of an infection cause by HIV, a virus. HIV weakens your immune system and your body's natural defense against infections. In the AIDS stage, your immune system is very weak and will eventually end up in death. HIV is spread through contact of body fluids like blood, semen and vaginal fluids. Some ways of contracting this virus is through, vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex, sharing drug needles, infected mother to an unborn baby and even blood transfusions.

There are many misconceptions of the way HIV is spread, such as sitting next to an infected person, shaking hands, swimming pools, sharing food, being bitten by mosquitoes, donating blood and even eating at restaurants. The affects of HIV to the body are usually within weeks of infection. Symptoms are usually flu like, diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, and night sweats. People living with HIV may live 10 years or more before getting AIDS symptoms.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help provide a healthier and longer life. Medications can help slow down the reproduction of the HIV virus. Help protect yourself by having safe sex. Never share needles and always use latex condoms while having sexual intercourse.

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