Home >> Health >> Young women's health >> HIV and Aids

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the virus that causes AIDS.  It affects the body's defence system, making it difficult to fight off infections.  

• A person can have HIV for years and feel perfectly healthy.  Later, they may develop AIDS, and become seriously ill, as their body is unable to defend itself against infection or disease. 
  
• Although treatments are improving, there is no vaccine for HIV and no cure for AIDS.  
  
• HIV can be treated with drugs that decrease symptoms and prolong life, and you can start this treatment before getting ill. That why it is important to get tested early on if you think you are at risk.
  
• If you are having sex, always, always use a condom. Don't be pressured into not using one.
  
• If you inject drugs, don't share your equipment and use new syringes and needles every time you inject.  There are clinics that organise needle exchanges.  For contacts, see the related articles on drugs.
   
  

 

• Home
• Get Help
• Get Involved
• Get Out
• Get Noticed
• Get a Life
• Get Entertained
• Youthoria