What is HIV?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports: "HIV is a virus spread through certain body fluids that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, often called T cells. Over time, HIV can destroy so many of these cells that the body can’t fight off infections and disease. These special cells help the immune system fight off infections. Untreated, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells (T cells) in the body. This damage to the immune system makes it harder and harder for the body to fight off infections and some other diseases. Opportunistic infections or cancers take advantage of a very weak immune system and signal that the person has AIDS."
To learn about HIV transmission, prevention, testing, PrEP, PEP, and more -- click here to be transferred to the CDC website.
What is a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)?
A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is an infection transmitted from person to person via sexual contact. These are also often referred to as sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
To learn about the many different diseases, conditions, and infections click here to be transferred to the CDC website.
Are some STDs associated with HIV?
Yes! Having an STD can increase your chances of getting HIV. Learn about why having an STD puts you at a greater risk of getting HIV with this STDs and HIV Fact Sheet from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Are condoms effective in preventing HIV?
While the CDC reports that abstinence is the only 100% effective tool in preventing HIV transmission, condoms--if used properly every time you have sex--are highly effective in HIV prevention. Are you using condoms the right way?
Learn more about male and female condoms, and how to use them properly, by visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website here.
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Should I get tested? How is it done?
June 27th is National HIV Testing Day! The only way to know whether or not you have it is to get tested. The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 test for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. Take the test, take control!
For information on the types of tests available and to find out where you can get tested for little or no cost, click HERE!