Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Guide

The term AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) refers to the most advanced stages of an infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is most often spread by having sex with an infected partner. Another way to spread HIV is by having contact with infected blood from contaminated needles, syringes, or other drug equipment.

HIV can’t be cured. But it can be controlled. And much of the damage from the infection can be reversed or prevented. But if HIV is left untreated, serious infections and cancers occur because of the weakened immune system. And the virus can be passed on to others.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1.5 million adults and teens are living with HIV infection in the U.S. Many more people are living with HIV infection outside the U.S., particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The HIV epidemic is still not well-controlled in some parts of the world. But this is improving steadily as effective medicines have become more widely available.

HIV screening may lead to earlier diagnosis. That can improve treatment and prevent HIV transmission to others. The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care.

A general rule for those with risk factors is to get tested annually. Risk factors include:

• Having vaginal or anal sex with a person infected with HIV whose virus is not under control. Sexual contact is the most common way the virus is spread. The virus enters the body through the lining of the vagina, penis, rectum, or mouth during sexual activity. Unprotected anal sex has the highest risk of transmission.
• Having multiple sex partners. This includes any partners whose HIV status is not known. It also includes a partner who has HIV, but whose virus is not under control or is uncertain of the control of their HIV.
• Having high-risk sexual partners. This includes a partner who has a sexually transmitted infection (STI), is a sex worker, or has sex with many other people. Someone who injects or sniffs drugs is also a high-risk partner.
• Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug equipment with someone with HIV whose virus is not under control or someone with uncertain HIV status.

The CDC also recommends that all pregnant women be tested for HIV. This testing can be a part of other prenatal testing when learning of a new pregnancy. Also, women at high risk should be screened again during the third trimester. Advances in HIV research have made it possible for people with HIV to give birth to babies who are free of HIV.

No cure exists for HIV/AIDS, but medications can control HIV, prevent disease progression and reach viral suppression. With treatment, most people with HIV in the U.S. don’t develop AIDS.

• Antiretroviral therapy. A treatment with several HIV medicines taken at the same time. These medicines work together to control the virus. They can restore your immune system and prevent future harm to it. These medicines can also help stop the spread of the virus to others. It works best if the person with HIV takes the medicines routinely.

• STD Check offers free HIV testing to individuals who need it most. This program allows you to schedule with ease through the phone for a visit at a nearby lab with fast results. Call STD Check at 1- 800-456-2323 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern.
• If you feel you are at risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV, you can obtain an HIV test as part of a free and confidential comprehensive STD screening at a Department-supported STD testing site. Find a STD testing site (PDF) in your area.
• Free Home HIV Test Kits Available to Pennsylvanians. Click here to learn more.
• There are many healthcare providers and community organizations in Southwestern Pennsylvania that can help you manage your medication and other support services you might need so you can stay healthy and live a long life. Check out available resources if you are living with HIV.