First, let’s clear something up: while we haven’t found a cure, HIV is highly treatable. If you test positive for HIV, your doctor will prescribe antiretroviral therapy (ART), which are medications that will reduce the amount of HIV in your blood. Significant medical advancements in HIV medications now allow people with HIV to take one pill a day. With proper HIV medications, you can reduce your HIV viral load to an undetectable level, at which point, there’s no risk of transmission (undetectable=untransmittable). Most people can achieve an undetectable viral load in three to six months with proper adherence to their HIV regimen.

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the late stage of HIV infection that occurs when the immune system is badly damaged. It is caused by untreated HIV. People with AIDS have severely compromised immune systems and are more likely to develop serious health complications. This is why frequent testing and early detection of HIV is important. Fortunately, most people with HIV in the US never receive an AIDS diagnosis. Let’s keep it that way!

One of the most effective ways to prevent acquiring HIV is PReP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) which are once-a-day pills or shots prescribed by an HIV specialist. These medications can reduce your risk of acquiring HIV through sexual contact by approximately 99%. PReP also reduces the risk of getting HIV from injection drugs by about 74% when taken as prescribed. The best way to prevent HIV via injection drugs is to always use a clean needle. Likewise, safer sex practices, such as using a physical barrier during sexual contact (condoms, dental dams, etc.) not only help prevent the transmission of HIV, but other sexually transmitted diseases as well. If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV within the last 72 hours (i.e. a condom broke, you shared a needle) talk with a health care provider right away. They can prescribe you with PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) which reduces the chances you will contract HIV. Don’t wait—every hour counts.

While some state laws require you to disclose your HIV to sexual partners, you certainly do not have to tell anyone else. However, sharing your HIV status with certain family members and friends can have significant mental health benefits. For example, your loved ones can help you come to terms with your positive status, keep up with your treatment plan, and navigate the medical system. Sadly, significant stigma associated with HIV is still widespread. Help your support system help you by sharing information about HIV from trusted, science-based resources.

Stigma associated with HIV remains a significant barrier to prevention, treatment, and care. It can lead to discrimination, isolation, and mental health challenges for people living with HIV. This stigma often stems from misinformation and fear, perpetuating negative stereotypes and discrimination. Addressing HIV stigma requires education, advocacy, and fostering a more compassionate and understanding society.