The Basics about HIV & Prevention
HIV stands for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and can cause AIDS.
AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and is a medical diagnosis that is given to an
Nationally and statewide, public health epidemiological data and HIV-related literature in the past 10 years support that there is an ongoing resurgence of HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM). Public health specialists, researchers, and community organizers agree that the need for sustained prevention efforts for MSM is critical in addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the U.S.
In Colorado there are more than 8,000 MSM living with HIV/AIDS. It is estimated that an additional 2,000+ MSM in Colorado are HIV-positive and not aware of their status.
Knowing your status is the first step
Getting tested and knowing your status is the first step in preventing the further transmission of HIV. Additionally, knowing even the most basic information about HIV can help you better understand how to protect yourself and your sexual partners from HIV transmission.
HIV Transmission
- HIV affects and weakens one’s immune system.
- HIV only can be transmitted by HIV-infected blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. No other body fluids can transmit HIV.
- HIV is transmitted when the virus, transported by one of these infected fluids, enters the bloodstream.
- HIV is commonly transmitted through anal or vaginal sex without a condom.
- HIV is also commonly transmitted by sharing needles and/or works in intravenous drug use situations with an HIV-infected partner.
- There is no vaccine or cure for HIV.
- There are medications and treatment available that can help an HIV-infected individual maintain one’s health.
HIV Prevention
- The only way to know one’s HIV status is to get tested for HIV.
- Ask your partner(s) his/her HIV status.
- Get tested with your sexual partner(s).
- Check your and your partner(s) mouth, penis, vagina, and/or rectum for cuts and sores.
- Use a condom or dental dam for oral sex.
- Use a condom and water- or silicone-based lubrication for anal or vaginal sex.
- Periodically check condom(s) for fit and tears.
- Ask your partner not to ejaculate in your mouth, anus, or vagina.
- Access Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), a four week course of antiretroviral medication, if you have a high-risk or known exposure to HIV.
Atlas is committed to providing ongoing information, conversation, events, and services to help prevent the spread and stigma of HIV. For ongoing information about HIV and men’s sexual health sign up to receive the Atlas Monthly Newsletter.
You are always welcome to call BCAP and Atlas at (303) 444-6121 for more information and support.
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