Human Immunodeficiency Virus
It might be a bit intimidating to talk about HIV, right? But, don’t worry we’re not here to bore or frighten you. By possessing the correct and updated information, perhaps it might even be more straightforward than you would think. We’re going to delve deeper into HIV, no need to be concerned; it’s not going to be like a lecture. Let’s get started!
What’s HIV?
HIV is like a guest who infiltrates your immune system and tires it slowly. Even though, it was an uninvited guest there are ways to deal with it. But, please don’t serve them cookies!
Don’t confuse HIV with AIDS. HIV is a virus and think AIDS as a mess that you have after a party that HIV threw.
HIV Tests
The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested and by doing so, you get a powerful information to keep you and your partner healthy. If the test result is positive; you can live a long, healthy life and protect others. And if it’s negative, you can take precautions to prevent HIV.
With the new tests you can get the results fast. You can easily get it done at a health center or hospital.
Which Test?
Antibody Test: Focuses on finding the warriors that fights HIV. Either by finger stick or oral fluid.
Antigen/Antibody Test: Focusses on finding both warriors and the virus. “Gotta find ‘em all!”
NAT (Nucleic Acid Test): More like a detective test. It finds the virus from its hiding place.
Stigmas Around HIV
Fighting alone against stigmas can be challenging, but when you act with others everything becomes easier. “Get support, give support, stay strong together!”
Be gentle to yourself. Having HIV won’t make you a bad person. It is not you, it’s the condition. ???
We, sometimes encounter things in our lives that we don’t want. This is just a small part of your story.
“Discrimination is like judging a book by its cover.”
Importance of Talking About HIV
Talking about HIV is like; you were sure that there is a monster in the closet, but when you turn on the light it turns out to be a cute kitten. As you talk, you start to gain strength and the fear starts to decrease.
Imagine a triangle whose sides are information, testing and treatment. There is no room for shame and guilt.
