What is HIV?
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system.
How do you get HIV?
The two main ways that HIV can be passed are:
- through sex
- by sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs (including steroids or hormones)
People at higher risk include those who:
- share drug use equipment
- exchange sex for drugs or money
- have sex with multiple partners without using a condom
- engage in condomless sexual activity with someone whose HIV status is unknown
- engage in condomless sexual activity with an HIV-positive individual who is not on treatment
- received a diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection, such as syphilis, gonorrhea or chlamydia
HIV testing
The only way to know for sure whether you have HIV is to get tested. Learn where you can get HIV testing.
U=U (undetectable = untransmittable)
People living with HIV who are on medication and maintain an undetectable amount of virus in their blood can lead a long, healthy life without the fear of passing HIV to their sexual partner. Learn more about U=U.
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
If you engage in frequent high risk activities, take a pill a day to prevent acquiring HIV. Learn more about PrEP.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, seek HIV PEP medication within 72hours – PEP can rid your body of the virus before it takes hold. Learn more about PEP.
More information
Find out more information visit these websites:
