The ABC's on HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS

It's pretty easy to think that HIV/AIDS is a disease for other peeps to worry about, but it's a big problem. In fact, it's estimated that 2.3 million kids under 15 were living with HIV in 2005! To be able to protect yourself from HIV and AIDS, you need to know the facts - get them here.

HIV/AIDS - What Is It?

So let's get this straight - HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus and AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is a disease. HIV wreaks havoc on the immune system by destroying the T lymphocyte, or T cell (a type of white blood cell that fights off germs and diseases). When your immune system has weakened and the T cells have been completely destroyed, HIV turns into AIDS.

HIV/AIDS - How Does It Spread?

HIV isn't like a cold or flu virus. You can't get it by being sneezed or coughed on, or by holding someone's hand. The only way HIV is passed is through direct contact with an infected person's body fluids.

Having sex with a person who has HIV.

Sharing needles or syringes with a person who has HIV.

Being born to a mother who has HIV.

HIV/AIDS - What Are the Symptoms?

Did you know people can be infected with HIV without even knowing it? That's cuz it can take up to a few years until they start to experience any symptoms! But, they will eventually begin to feel sick. Symptoms range from diarrhea and weight loss to infections in the mouth and fevers that come and go. Since the immune system is so weak, other infections and diseases can develop, like skin cancer and pneumonia, which causes coughing and breathing problems.

HIV/AIDS - How Is It Treated?

Unfortunately, there's no cure for HIV or AIDS, but special medications can slow down the disease and help people live longer lives. The good news is that scientists and doctors are currently researching vaccines that may be able to prevent HIV infections in the future.