1. Human Immunodeficiency Virus

2.  1) Abstain from sex.  2) If not a virgin - change your behavior and be tested.  3) Have a monogamous marriage.  4) Choose a drug free lifestyle.  5) Avoid using injection drugs.

3.  6) Change behavior is using drugs.  7) Avoid sharing needles – drugs, tattoos, piercings.  8) Follow universal precautions.

4.  Human Immunodeficiency Virus  Virus that destroys the infection fighting T cells in the body.  Flulike symptoms as immune system is compromised.

5.  People with HIV are susceptible to many opportunistic infections.  Infections that develop because of a weak immune system.  Thrush  Tuberculosis  Kaposi’s sarcoma (Cancer)

6.  Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome  ½ of all people infected with HIV develop AIDS within 10 years.  A person with HIV who has less then 200 helper T cells per microliter of blood.

7.  HIV is in most body fluids.  Spread through contact of body fluids.  Increased risks: 1) Having multiple sex partners. 2) Having sex with a prostitute. 3) Having other STD’s.

8.  Closed mouth kissing, hugging  Touching, holding hands  Coughing or sneezing  Sharing food or eating utensils  Sharing towels or combs  Sharing bathroom facilities or water fountains.  Being bitten by insects  Donating blood. Swimming in a pool.  Using sports equipment.

9.  Blood test to test for antibodies.  These antibodies show up 3 – 6 months after infection.  2 main blood test- ELISA and Western Blot test.  Used together – correct 99.9% of time.

10.  There is no cure for HIV infection or AIDS.  Treatment focuses on slowing the progression of the virus.  Antiretroviral drugs slow virus replication.  HIV treatment – HAART – Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy. Combination of 3 drugs.

11.  1) Abstain from sex  2) Do not open mouth kiss an infected person.  3)Change behavior is sexually active in the past.  4) Monogamous marriage  5) Do not inject illegal drugs.

12.  6) change drug behaviors  7) don’t share needles.  8) Follow universal precautions.  9) Inquire about safety of blood transfusion or tissue transplant.