What is HIV/AIDS?

HIV is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus that causes AIDS. A member of a group of viruses called retroviruses, HIV infects human cells and uses the energy and nutrients provided by those cells to grow and reproduce.


AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is a disease in which the body's immune system breaks down and is unable to fight off certain infections, known as "opportunistic infections," and other illnesses that take advantage of a weakened immune system.


A person who is HIV-infected carries the virus in certain body fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. The virus can be transmitted only if such HIV-infected fluids enter the bloodstream of another person. This kind of direct entry can occur

(1) through the linings of the vagina, rectum, mouth, and the opening at the tip of the penis;

(2) through intravenous injection with a syringe; or

(3) through a break in the skin, such as a cut or sore. Usually, HIV is transmitted through:

• Unprotected sexual intercourse (anal, vaginal, or oral) with someone who is HIV infected.
• Sharing needles or syringes with someone who is HIV infected.
• Infection during pregnancy, childbirth, or breast-feeding (mother-to-infant transmission).

If you are sexually active, protect yourself from HIV infection by practicing safer sex. Whenever you have sex, use a condom or "dental dam" (a square of latex recommended for use during oral-genital and oral-anal sex). When used properly and consistently, condoms are extremely effective. But remember: Use only latex condoms (or dental dams). Lambskin products provide little protection against HIV.

Use only water-based lubricants. Latex condoms are virtually useless when combined with oil- or petroleum-based lubricants such as Vaseline or hand lotion. (People with latex allergies can use polyethylene condoms with oil-based lubricants.)

Use protection each and every time you have sex.


If you are injecting drugs of any type, including steroids, do not share syringes or other injection equipment with anyone else. If you are planning to have any part of your body pierced or to get a tattoo, be sure to see a qualified professional who uses sterile equipment.