HIV/AIDS MYTHS AND FACTS HIV/AIDS

Myths Facts

HIV/AIDS can be spread through physical touch such as kissing, hugging, or sharing utensils or cups.

HIV/AIDS can only be spread through bodily fluids: blood, breast milk, pre-seminal fluid, rectal mucus, semen, vaginal fluids, unsterilized tattoo needles with infected blood.

Pregnant women with HIV can’t lower their chances of passing HIV to their unborn baby.

Only the LGBTQ community can catch HIV.

In order to reduce their chances of passing HIV to their baby, patients work with their doctors and take antiretroviral (ARV) medicine.

HIV/AIDS is not limited to those in the LGBTQ community. In fact, heterosexual people make up 23% of HIV diagnoses.

HIV and AIDS is the same thing.

References:

Hall, Caleb, and Community Access Network.

“II Myths and Facts About HIV and AIDS.” Community Access Network.

“Facts about HIV and AIDS.” Facts about HIV and AIDS | Office on Women’s Health

RESEARCH BY SANDY CEBALLOS

If not treated, or left untreated for a significant amount of time, HIV can potentially lead to AIDS.