Facts About HIV/AIDS

What is AIDS?

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a condition that destroys the body's immune defense system. It is caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). After HIV invades the body it lives in the white blood cells, which are the cells that protect the body from disease.

How is HIV transmitted?

A person becomes infected by:

Having sex, without a condom, with someone who is infected.

Injecting drugs/medications with a needle used by someone who is infected.

HIV can be transmitted only through body fluids, such as, blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk.

What medical treatments are there for the HIV disease?

There is no cure for AIDS, however, with the new medications and protease inhibitors available, people diagnosed as being HIV+ are living longer. In the early years of the epidemic many died within two years.

Why is it important to test for HIV?

If you test negative, take precautions to keep yourself healthy.

If you test positive, immediately seek the treatment and support you will need. Also, tell anyone who was exposed to your blood, semen or vaginal fluid, including sexual partners or needle sharing partners. If you do not feel you can tell them, have your physician, case manager, or trusted friend/family member inform these partners.

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The AIDS Information number is 1-800-333-SIDA Questions? Email us!
Am I at risk for HIV?

Valley AIDS Council (VAC) is a private, non-profit organization which provides primary outpatient care and support services to men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS in South Texas.