Fact #1

AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, a condition in which the body’s immune system is destroyed. While there are treatments that help people survive some of the diseases they get as a result of losing their immunity, there is no cure for AIDS

Fact #2

AIDS is caused by infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV. Infection with HIV is entirely preventable. Prevent HIV infection and you will prevent AIDS.

Fact #3

HIV is spread through contact with bodily fluids containing white blood cells: blood, semen, vaginal fluids, breast milk and, in trace amounts generally not considered dangerous, saliva. This contact comes primarily through sexual relations and sharing of needles when using illegal drugs.

Fact #4

When it comes to HIV infection, it doesn’t matter who you are; it matters what you do. Make choices that are healthy.

Fact #5

You can protect yourself from HIV infection by correctly using latex condoms every time you have sex, and if you choose to use drugs, by properly cleaning shared needles.

Fact #6

HIV is not spread through casual contact. HIV is not transmitted by shaking hands, hugging, and/or sharing rest rooms, equipment food utensils or drinking fountains.

Fact #7

Medical tests detect antibodies to HIV. These antibodies are in the bloodstream and are an attempt of the immune system to eliminate the virus. Antibodies are generally detectable 3-6 months after infection with HIV. When antibodies are present in someone’s blood, that person is said to be "HIV Positive".

Fact #8

Most HIV-positive people can live healthy, active lives for years after infection. This is especially true with the development of new medications in recent years. While everyone who is HIV-positive will not necessarily develop AIDS, the majority have. For many HIV-positive people, symptoms serious enough to constitute an AIDS diagnosis begin to appear seven to nine years after infection.

Fact #9

While many people associate the AIDS epidemic with gay men, (and while the first wave of the epidemic primarily centered in the gay community), the epidemic increasingly affects all groups, men and women, homosexual and heterosexual alike. Infections among women and adolescents are increasing the fastest of all population groups.

Fact #10

Assessing and taking responsibility for your behavior and educating yourself about HIV/AIDS is key to protecting yourself and your partners from HIV infection.