AIDS


AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and it acts to destroy a type of defence cell called CD4 Lymphocytes.
As the medical community learns more about how HIV works, they've been able to develop drugs to prevent its growth. These drugs have been successful in slowing the progress of the disease, and people with the disease now live much longer. However, there is still no cure for HIV and AIDS.

The virus is spread through highrisk behaviours including:
Sex without using a condom
Sharing needles

People who have another sexually transmitted disease, are at greater risk for getting HIV during sex with infected partners.

A person can have the virus for a long time without knowing it. Spreading of HIV can be prevented by:
Abstaining from sex (not having oral, vaginal, or anal sex)
Always using latex condoms for all types of sexual intercourse
Avoiding contact with the bodily fluids through which HIV is transmitted
Never sharing needles

If you think that you may have HIV or AIDS or if you have had a partner who may have HIV or AIDS, see your doctor.