What is AIDS?

AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. AIDS results from a breakdown of the body’s defense (immune) system. This breakdown leaves the body open to a variety of illnesses, which are normally not a threat to a healthy person.

What causes AIDS?

AIDS is caused by a virus called the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Most people who are infected with the AIDS virus are not sick. A person can be a "carrier" and pass on the virus to other people without either of them knowing it. The AIDS virus enters the body through the bloodstream by contact with specific infected body fluids such as blood, semen or vaginal secretions.

How do you get AIDS?

Having sex with someone whom is infected with the AIDS virus. This virus is most commonly found in semen, blood and vaginal secretions. It is transmitted through sexual intercourse (anal, vaginal, and possible oral). Sharing intravenous (IV) drug needles with someone who is infected with the AIDS virus (because blood is shared). This could include sharing needles for steroids or any other drugs. As a baby, being born to a woman infected with the AIDS virus. If you are infected with the AIDS virus you can pass the virus on to your unborn child. Receiving blood transfusions or blood product form someone infected with the AIDS virus. In early 1985 all blood banks began screening blood for AIDS so this is primarily a problem for blood received before that time. Where can I get tested?

Confidential AIDS testing is available at the local public health office located on Boylston Street across form the post office.

REMEMBER:

You cannot get AIDS from: Sitting on a toilet seat; using public pools; donating blood; attending classes or working with a person who has aids; holding, hugging or touching a person with AIDS; or eating food in a public place.

The ways you can get AIDS are: through sexual intercourse with an infected person; sharing a drug needle with someone who is infected with HIV; by an infected mother transmitting the virus during pregnancy and childbirth; and rarely from receiving blood products.

More Information:

The U.S. Public Health Service also has a toll-free hotline to answer questions on AIDS. Information is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call (800)342-AIDS.