HIV

HIV infection is a viral infection that progressively destroys the immune system, causing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and other diseases that result from the impaired immunity. Symptoms Some people, within a few weeks of first contracting HIV infection, have symptoms that are similar to infectious mononucleosis.

Where to get tested There are many locations where HIV testing is done. Most big cities have anonymous testing sites where you can request a test without giving your name. At these sites, you are assigned a code that will be used to label your test sample. When you come back for the result, simply give your code to identify your result.

Finding out that you have a serious illness is never easy. Until recently, HIV infection was considered a terminal disease, but with recent advances in treatment, there is new hope. But how much hope? What can you expect if you're diagnosed with HIV infection today? Get support First, it's important to remember that people react to difficult news in different ways by getting sad, angry, depressed even denying that anything is wrong.

Should you get an HIV test? The answer is yes - if you feel you need to be tested or suspect you may have been exposed to the HIV virus. How HIV is transmitted HIV is transmitted through direct contact with infected blood or other body fluids such as vaginal fluids and semen. In order to be transmitted, the infected fluid must come into direct contact with your bloodstream or the lining of your mouth, vagina, or anus.