HIV AWARENESS
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that damages and weakens the body's immune system, which is the system that helps your body fight off infection and disease.
- Every 9.5 minutes, someone in the United States is infected with the HIV virus. Get the proper facts on how to prevent HIV, delay the onset of AIDS, and becoming a part of the solution.
- 1 in 7 people don't know they have HIV. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.
- Drug and alcohol use can lead to risky behaviors that can increase your exposure to HIV/AIDS.
Many people with HIV do not have any symptoms; the only way to be certain is to be tested. It is recommended that all teens and adults get tested, especially if they are at a greater risk of infections. For a list of risk factors, click here.
STD Conversation Starters
Use these tips to start a conversation with your partner about getting tested for STD's (Sexually Transmitted Diseases).
- “STDs that are found and treated early are less likely to cause long-term problems.”
- “Getting tested is easy. Doctors and nurses can test your urine for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, 2 of the most common STD's."
- "Getting tested can be fast too. For some HIV tests, you get your results within 20 minutes through a rapid test that pokes your finger."
- "If you want to get tested at home, you can buy a HIV home test online or at a store.”
- "If you don't feel comfortable talking about STD's with your regular doctor, you can get tested at a clinic instead."
For more ideas, click here.
Personal Health Tools:
- HIV Testing: Questions for the doctor
- STD Testing: Conversation starters
- HIV Testing Site Locator
- HIV Testing Sites & Care Services Locator
- HIV Testing Office on Women's Health
- Add the HIV Testing Sites & Care Services Locator Widget to your website