9 AIDS-related myths that everyone should be aware of
Did you know India has the third highest rate of HIV infection in the world?
With 2.1 million HIV-positive individuals in India, the epidemic is largely driven by sexual transmission, with 88,000 new cases and 69,000 AIDS-related deaths occurring each year.
Despite breakthroughs in HIV care and more knowledge, many Indian tribes continue to view it as a punishment. There are numerous myths surrounding HIV/AIDS. Let us attempt to dispel Myths and highlight Facts in this essay.
Myth 1: Having HIV automatically entails having AIDS...
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is lifelong; the virus replicates inside the body, gradually decreases immunity, and, if left untreated, may progress to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiated shortly after diagnosis can reduce virus proliferation and guarantee that persons with HIV live a normal life without developing AIDS.
Myth 2: Is HIV a punishment meted out by God or a death sentence?
HIV, like other viruses, is a sickness; it is not a punishment. Do not feel guilty, and do not put off therapy. Begin antiretroviral therapy (ART) early and adhere to preventative measures.
Myth 3: HIV is a disease that affects only certain groups of people; I am straight and therefore will not contract HIV...
HIV may harm anybody, regardless of sexual orientation, gender, socioeconomic class, or religious affiliation. HIV may infect anyone who is sexually active or had several sexual partners. HIV is more prevalent in homosexual males, sex workers, transgender persons, people who inject drugs/share needles, and migrant workers/truck drivers who engage in unprotective sex in India.
How can individuals become infected with HIV?
The virus can enter the circulation of an uninfected person by contact with infected person's bodily fluids (blood, sperm, vaginal secretions, anal fluid, breast milk, wound/skin exudates). Transmission is a possibility.
Sexual encounters involving unprotected sex
Maternal: Transmission of infection from an infected mother to her infant during delivery or breastfeeding
Concerning needles/instruments: Sharing infected needles
Transfusion/Transplant-related: (It is, however, uncommon since that blood/organs are screened for HIV)
Myth 4: I may get HIV by sharing a room with or coming into contact with an infected individual...
HIV cannot thrive in either air or water. You cannot get HIV through sexual contact.
Contacting or embracing an HIV-positive individual
Sharing common areas, utensils, restrooms, and swimming pools
Bites from mosquitoes/insects
Sweat, tears, and coughing/sneezing of an infected individual
Myth 5: By bathing after intercourse or using a contraceptive pill, I may avoid contracting HIV...
The only way to prevent HIV transmission is to
Adhering to healthy sexual behaviors (using condoms)
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): For HIV-negative individuals at high risk, a daily course of antiretroviral medicines (ARVs) is suggested (spouse of HIV positive, sex workers)
Never share needles and abstain from narcotics
Take a screening test to determine your health condition.
HIV-positive pregnant women can take medications to minimize their baby's chance of transmission.
Myth 6: If I have HIV, I will know without a test.
HIV testing is the only method to determine if you are infected. The majority of patients either exhibit no symptoms at all or exhibit flu-like symptoms (fever, sore throat, lethargy, muscle/joint pains, and headache) that last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Myth 7: Sexual activity is safe if both partners are HIV positive.
The virus comes in two strains: HIV-1 and HIV-2. Because partners may be infected with a different strain, other strains of the virus may be transmitted during unprotected intercourse. Condoms are advised for all sexual encounters.
Myth 8: Antiretroviral medications are not effective in many individuals
Fact: If initiated early enough, antiretroviral therapy effectively combats HIV. Consuming medications properly, as directed by healthcare professionals, and adhering to the routine effectively prevents drug resistance.
HIV is treatable, according to myth 9.
There is no treatment for HIV/AIDS (no pharmaceuticals, no natural therapies) and no vaccine to prevent it.
Early HIV identification and effective antiretroviral therapy are critical for leading a normal life.