Additional Questions

There are many treatment guidelines for people infected with HIV, including guidelines for the prevention and treatment of opportunistic infections. These guidelines can be viewed and downloaded from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

You may also wish to contact HIVinfo (hyperlink below), a service of the United States National Institute of Health that offers the latest federally-approved information on HIV/AIDS: HIV.gov

* clinical research,
* treatment, and
* prevention.

Exposure to HIV means that a person has come into direct contact with certain body fluids (blood, semen, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, breast milk / human milk) in such a way as to be placed at risk. You can be exposed to HIV without acquiring the virus. Infection means that the virus entered the body and is living there.

Many people who are living with HIV don't have symptoms for many years. Someone can look and feel healthy but can still be living with the virus. Once a person is living with HIV, they can pass the virus to others.

If you have questions about treatment for HIV, talk to your doctor or a healthcare provider. They can help you figure out the best treatment for you. It's best if you see a doctor who has experience treating people with HIV.

For specific information on the treatment of HIV, there is information on medicines approved by the FDA at https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/staying-in-hiv-care/hiv-treatment/hiv-treatment-overview

Information is available in both English and Spanish.

There is no vaccine or cure for HIV. There are medications that can help many people living with HIV dramatically prolong their lives. HIV treatment involves taking highly effective medicines called antiretroviral therapy (ART) that work to control the virus. ART is recommended for everyone with HIV, and people living with HIV should start ART as soon as possible after diagnosis, even on that same day.1 There is more information about ART and how to access it in the booklet that came with your test. It's important that people get tested for HIV and know that they're infected early in order for medical care and treatment to have the greatest effect.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv
https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/staying-in-hiv-care/hiv-treatment/hiv-treatment-overview

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most job-based and individual plans are required to offer certain benefits and protections. For example, plans can’t drop you or deny you coverage just because you have a pre-existing health condition, like HIV. And insurers can’t impose lifetime caps on your insurance benefits. However, you’ll still need to pay any deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance your plan requires. When you leave a job, you may be able to keep your job-based health insurance for a period, usually up to 18 months. This is called COBRA continuation coverage.

With COBRA coverage, you usually have to pay the entire monthly premium yourself, plus a small administrative fee. Your former employer no longer pays any of your insurance costs. If you do not have health coverage through an employer, the Health Insurance Marketplace, available at HealthCare.gov, helps uninsured people find and apply for quality, affordable health coverage. Private plans in the Marketplace are required to cover a set of essential health benefits, including HIV screening, STI prevention counseling, and PrEP. Low and middle-income people may qualify for lower costs, based on their household size and income. To see if you can enroll in a health insurance plan or change plans, visit HealthCare.gov or find local help.

Some states run their own health insurance exchanges. You can still get connected to them through HealthCare.gov. Contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Business Responds to AIDS/Labor Responds to AIDS program to learn more about HIV in the workplace and the laws that protect HIV-positive employees.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv
https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/staying-in-hiv-care/hiv-treatment/hiv-treatment-overview/

There are several programs that can help you pay for HIV medications. They include:

* AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAPs). ADAP is a federal program administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) HIV/AIDS Bureau that covers medication costs for people with HIV.
* Manufacturer-based Patient Assistance Programs. Some drug companies have Patient Assistance Programs. Your doctor or counselor can help you find out how to apply for or enroll in any of these programs.
* Non-Profit Organizations. A number of non-profit organizations assist with medication costs (including co-pays) for HIV prevention and care and other conditions.
* Clinical trials. For some patients, access to medications can also be gained through clinical trials. By taking part in a clinical trial, you will get: Free doctors care; Free lab testing; Access to the newest drug combinations available.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://aidsetc.org/resource/medication-assistance-programs
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

T cells are a type of white blood cell that help your immune system fight germs and protect you from disease. They are called "T" cells because they mature in the thymus (THAHY-muhs) gland, an important gland that stimulates the immune system. There are 2 main types of T cells: Cytotoxic T cells (CD8+) and Helper T Cells (CD4+). Cytotoxic T-cells kill cells infected with viruses and bacteria, and they also destroy tumor cells. CD4+, or helper T-cells, don’t kill cells directly. Instead, they send signals that tell other cells in your immune system how to coordinate an attack against invaders. The number of CD4 cells in a sample of blood can be an indicator of the health of the immune system. HIV infects and kills CD4 cells. This can lead to a weakened immune system in people living with HIV.

If you have been diagnosed with HIV, a CD4/CD8 ratio is used to help determine the progression of the HIV infection and disease, which will help your clinician understand how strong your immune system is. Reference - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24630-t-cells

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24630-t-cells
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are also commonly referred to as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). People who have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) may be at an increased risk of getting HIV. One reason is the behaviors that put someone at risk for one infection (not using condoms, multiple partners, anonymous partners) often put them at risk for other infections. Also, because STIs and HIV tend to be linked, when someone gets an STI, it suggests they got it from someone who may be at risk for other STIs and HIV. Finally, a sore or inflammation from an STI may allow infection with HIV that would have been stopped by intact, or unbroken, skin. People with HIV are also more likely to shed HIV when they have urethritis or a genital ulcer. Screening for STIs can help assess a person’s risk for getting HIV.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

You can test with the OraQuick® HIV Self-Test in the privacy of your own home.

Many places also offer HIV testing. Common testing locations include:
* local health departments,
* private doctors' offices,
* hospitals, and
* other sites set up just for HIV testing

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv
https://aidsvu.org/services/#/testing

The HIV viral load test is a blood test. It measures the amount of HIV virus (copies of HIV RNA) in your blood. The viral load test is an important tool in monitoring the progression of HIV infection and the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART). It provides information about the level of virus replication in the body and helps healthcare professionals assess how well the treatment is suppressing the virus. If you have questions about treatment for HIV, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help figure out the best treatment for you. There is a QR code in the booklet that came with your test that can help you find providers who specialize in HIV in your area if you need resources.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites: HIV Viral Load Lab Tests Online http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/viral-load/tab/test

If you test positive for HIV, the sooner you take steps to protect your health, the better. Early medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle can help you stay well. Prompt medical care may delay the onset of AIDS and prevent some life-threatening conditions.

If you test positive for HIV, talk with a doctor as soon as you find out that you have it. Your doctor can help you learn more about the best treatment for you. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend you find a doctor who has experience treating people living with HIV.

You can learn more by visiting the CDC website or calling 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800 232-4636).

Different HIV drugs have different side effects. Your healthcare provider will be able to explain the potential side effects of different HIV drugs as they help you with a treatment plan. If you think you're having a side effect from a drug you're taking, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Some side effects that seem minor can be signs of more serious problems. Your healthcare provider can help you figure out what to do. There is more detailed information available at HIV.gov (English and Spanish).

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

HIV (human immunodeficiency [im-YOO-noh-di-FISH-un-see] virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system and kills the cells that help you fight off infection and disease. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV is primarily transmitted through certain body fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk / human milk, from a person who has HIV. The most common modes of transmission include unprotected sexual contact, sharing of needles or syringes among people who inject drugs, and transmission from an HIV-positive person to their child during childbirth or breastfeeding/ chestfeeding. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the standard treatment for HIV. It involves taking a combination of medications that help control the virus, reduce the viral load in the body, and maintain a healthy immune system. With effective treatment, individuals with HIV can live long and healthy lives.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/hiv-transmission/ways-people-get-hiv.html

If you have HIV, there are many things you can do to stay healthy.

* Make sure you see a healthcare provider who knows how to treat HIV. Begin treatment as soon as your healthcare provider tells you to.

* Keep your appointments and follow your healthcare providers’ instructions. If your healthcare provider prescribes medicine for you, take the medicine just the way they tell you. Taking only some of your medicine gives your HIV infection more chance to fight back.

* If you get sick from your medicine, call your healthcare provider for advice. Don't make changes to your medicine on your own or because of advice from friends.

* Get immunizations (vaccines) to prevent infections such as pneumonia (noo-MOH-nee-uh) (a lung infection) and influenza (flu). Your healthcare provider will tell you when to get these vaccines.

* Practice safer sex to reduce your risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or another strain of HIV.

* If you smoke or use drugs not prescribed by your healthcare provider, discuss these with your healthcare provider to ensure that you have all the information you need to help make decisions about your health.

* Eat healthy foods. This will help keep you strong, keep your energy and weight up, and help your body protect itself.

* Exercise regularly.

* Get enough sleep and rest.

* Take time to relax. Many people find that meditation or prayer, along with exercise and rest, help them cope with the stress of having HIV or AIDS.

There are also many things you can do to protect your health while preparing food, eating, traveling, and being around your pets. Talk with your doctor about these things. You can also read more about these things on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

HIV infection can progress to AIDS over time if the person is not receiving adequate treatment. The timeline for progression varies from person to person and depends on factors such as overall health, adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and access to healthcare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, a person is diagnosed with AIDS if they have: A CD4 cell count below 200 cells/mm³ (normal range is 500-1,600 cells/mm³), or A CD4 percentage less than 14% (normal range is 25-40%), or The presence of specific AIDS-defining opportunistic infections or cancers. AIDS is characterized by the occurrence of opportunistic infections and certain cancers that take advantage of the weakened immune system. Examples of opportunistic infections associated with AIDS include pneumonia, tuberculosis, and certain types of meningitis. Kaposi's sarcoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are examples of AIDS-related cancers. While there is no cure for AIDS, it can be managed with proper medical care. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the primary treatment for HIV and AIDS. ART helps control the virus, prevent opportunistic infections, and slow down the progression of the disease.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

A diagnosis with HIV is no longer the death sentence it once was. New treatments are allowing people to live long, healthy, and normal lives.

Early medical treatment and a healthy lifestyle can help you stay well. Prompt medical care may delay the onset of AIDS and prevent some life-threatening conditions. There are many important steps you can take as soon as you find out you're HIV-positive to protect your health.

* See a healthcare provider, even if you don't feel sick. Try to find someone with experience treating HIV. We can provide you with referrals if you would like. There are now many drugs to treat HIV infection and help you maintain your health.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

The signs and symptoms of HIV can vary, and many people do not have any symptoms for many years. The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested. Some people experience flu-like symptoms in the first 2 to 4 weeks after being infected. Some things that you may experience are fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches and joint pain, a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, or a skin rash. It’s important to remember that these are non-specific symptoms and can result from many different types of infections.

After this initial period, individuals who had these symptoms may not experience any symptoms. If you suspect that you have been exposed to HIV or if you have symptoms that you think may be HIV, it is important to get tested promptly and speak to a healthcare provider.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/whatishiv.html

Pregnant people can test with the OraQuick® HIV Self-Test. Treatment for HIV during pregnancy can help protect your baby from infection. If you are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant and have or think you may have HIV, you should talk to your healthcare provider right way. Early and regular treatment can help you stay healthy and significantly reduce the chance of you passing HIV to your child.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

Your HIV test result reveals only your HIV status.

Also, a negative test result does not necessarily mean you're not living with HIV. If you were exposed to HIV less than 3 months ago, you may need to repeat the test in a few months to make sure you don't have HIV.

Ask your sex or needle sharing partner or partners if they have been tested for HIV and what risk behaviors they have engaged in. Think about getting tested together.

The only way to know if you have HIV is to be tested. You can't rely on symptoms to know whether or not you're infected. Many people who have HIV don't have any symptoms at all for many years.

If you're worried that you might have HIV, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They can help you find out if you're infected.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

The federally approved clinical practice guidelines for HIV/AIDS are developed by panels of experts in HIV care and are published at https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/en/guidelines. The Federally Approved Clinical Practice Guidelines for HIV/AIDS include:

* Adult and Adolescent ARV (antiretroviral therapy).
* Adult and Adolescent Opportunistic Infections.
* Pediatric ARV.
* Pediatric Opportunistic Infections.
* Perinatal HIV Clinical Guidelines
* Guidelines for Caring for Persons with HIV in Disaster Areas
*Guidance for COVID-19 and People with HIV

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/en/guidelines
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

You cannot rely on symptoms to know whether a person has progressed to the most severe stage of HIV infection, also known as Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, or AIDS. A person with HIV is considered to have progressed to AIDS when:

* The number of their CD4 cells falls below 200 cells per cubic millimeter of blood (200 cells/mm3). In someone with a healthy immune system, CD4 counts are between 500 and 1,600 cells/mm3. OR,
* They develop one or more opportunistic infections regardless of their CD4 count

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/about-hiv-and-aids/what-are-hiv-and-aids/
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

While both partners being HIV positive reduces the risk of transmitting the virus to an uninfected partner, it is still important to consider a number of factors before you decide to have sex without barrier protection.

A few factors to keep in mind: There are several different strains of HIV, like with many other infectious diseases. It is possible that you and your partner have different strains of HIV, and it is possible to be infected by multiple strains. If you have multiple strains of HIV, it makes treatment more complicated. Even if you are HIV positive, you can still contract other STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and others.

It is important to consider this risk; barrier protection is effective at preventing many STIs. If someone who is HIV positive has an undetectable viral load, they cannot transmit the virus through sex; being under medical care and being adherent to your medications are important factors involved in getting to and maintaining an undetectable viral load. We encourage you to consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about unprotected sex. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances. In addition, open and honest communication between partners is important. Both partners should be comfortable with the decision and fully understand the potential risks. We encourage you to discuss this choice with your partner before engaging in unprotected sex.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

Thanks to today's effective HIV treatment, most people with HIV in the U.S. do not progress to AIDS, the most advanced stage of HIV infection.

People with HIV who take HIV medicine as prescribed and get and keep an undetectable viral load can stay healthy and will not progress to AIDS.

If you have any questions about your HIV treatment or other concerns, you should reach out to your healthcare provider.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/hiv-and-aids-basics
www.hiv.gov
https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/whatishiv.html

The treatment for HIV is called antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART involves taking a combination of HIV medicines (called an HIV treatment regimen) every day.

ART is recommended for everyone who has HIV. People with HIV should start taking HIV medicines as soon as possible. ART cannot cure HIV, but HIV medicines help people with HIV live longer, healthier lives. ART also reduces the risk of HIV transmission.

The goal of HIV treatment is to reduce a person’s viral load to an undetectable level, where the level of HIV in the blood is too low to be detected by a viral load test. People with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load have effectively no risk of transmitting HIV to their HIV-negative partners through sex.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/hiv-treatment-basics
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

When HIV enters your body, it attacks and destroys the infection-fighting CD4 cells (CD4 T lymphocyte) of the immune system. Losing CD4 cells makes it difficult for the body to fight off infections, illnesses, and certain cancers. Without treatment, HIV can gradually destroy the immune system, and you can't fight infections and diseases as well.

AIDS is diagnosed based on the following:

* A drop in CD4 count to less than 200 cells/mm3. A CD4 count measures the number of CD4 cells (CD4 T lymphocyte) in a sample of blood.
* The presence of certain opportunistic infections that the CDC refers to as AIDS-defining conditions that take advantage of the fact that the body does not have the tools to fight infection, such as:
* Kaposi’s Sarcoma, and
* Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (NEW-mo-SIS-tis kuh-RAHY-nee-ahy CA-RIN-nee-eye noo-MOH-nee-uh) (PCP)

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/hiv-and-aids-basics

If you think your potential exposure to HIV happened within the last 72 hours, we encourage you to talk to a healthcare provider as soon as you can. There is a medication called PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) that can be taken after an HIV exposure to prevent you from getting HIV, but it must be started within 72 hours.

If your exposure was recent (in the last few months), certain types of HIV tests may be more appropriate for you than others. We encourage you to talk to a healthcare provider to guide you on which test is best for you. If you think it is possible, talk to anyone involved in the potential exposure and if someone is not sure about their status, encourage them to get tested.

If your result is negative, you should test again 3 months after the exposure.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

HIV destroys a certain kind of blood cell called CD4 positive (CD4+) T cells. These cells are central to your immune (body defense) system and help your body fight off infection and disease. The loss of these cells in people with HIV is a strong predictor of the development of AIDS.

Sensitive tests have shown a strong connection between:
* The HIV viral load, or the amount of HIV in the blood;
* The decline in CD4+ T cells; and
* The progression to AIDS.

Reducing the amount of virus in the body with drugs can slow the destruction of a person's immune system and help to prevent infection and disease.

Acute HIV infection is the earliest stage of HIV infection, and it generally develops within 2 to 4 weeks after infection with HIV. In the acute stage of infection, HIV multiplies rapidly and spreads throughout the body.

During the acute HIV infection stage, the level of HIV in the blood is very high, which greatly increases the risk of HIV transmission.

A person may experience significant health benefits if they start treatment during this stage. Your partner and you can speak to your healthcare provider about HIV prevention medicines such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to HIV, get tested as soon as possible. The only way to know if you've been infected is to have an HIV test.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv
https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/stages-hiv-infection
HIVinfo@NIH.gov

In the U.S., most people with HIV do not develop AIDS because taking HIV medicine as prescribed stops the progression of the disease.

HIV treatment (antiretroviral therapy or ART) involves taking medicine as prescribed by a health care provider. HIV treatment reduces the amount of HIV in your body and helps you stay healthy.

THere is no cure for HIV, but you can control it with HIV treatment. HIV treatment reduces the amount of HIV in the blood (viral load). HIV treatment prevents transmission to others. If you have undetectable viral load, it lowers the risk of transmission.

Without medication, the progression from HIV to AIDS varies from person to person and depends on a number of factors, such as overall health. The average amount of time it takes to progress from HIV to AIDS if you are not taking medications is 10-12 years but can be longer or shorter depending on the person.

It is important for you to work with a healthcare provider to ensure you have all the information needed to make decisions about your health.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv
https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/stages-hiv-infection
HIVinfo@NIH.gov

There are two main types HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): HIV-1 and HIV-2. While both weaken the immune system, HIV-2 develops more slowly and has a lower transmission rate than HIV-1.

HIV-1 is the most common type of HIV, and it occurs all over the world. It is estimated that around 95% of people living with HIV have HIV-1.

Subtypes: HIV-1 is further divided into several groups and subtypes. The main groups are:
* Group M (Major): Responsible for the majority of HIV infections globally. Group M is further divided into subtypes (or clades) such as A, B, C, D, F, G, H, J, and K. Each subtype has a different geographic distribution.
* Group O (Outlier): Found mainly in West and Central Africa.
* Group N (Non-M, Non-O): Extremely rare, with only a few cases reported.
* Group P: Also very rare, identified in a small number of individuals. HIV-2 is mainly present in West Africa, but it is slowly starting to appear in other regions, including the United States, Europe, and India.

Subtypes: HIV-2 has several subtypes, labeled A through H, but subtypes A and B are the most common. Though HIV-1 and HIV-2 are both retroviruses that can have similar effects on the human body, they are genetically distinct. This means that not all tests and treatments work for both types of HIV.

The OraQuick® Self-Test has been approved to detect antibodies for both HIV-1 and HIV-2.

For individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART) with a sustained undetectable HIV viral load during pregnancy, the risk of transmission through breastfeeding / chestfeeding is less than 1%, but not zero.

Individuals who have questions about breastfeeding / chestfeeding or who want to breastfeed / chestfeed should consult with a healthcare provider to receive patient-centered, evidence-based counseling on infant feeding options.

If you're pregnant and are worried that you've been exposed to HIV, you should test with OraQuick® HIV Self-Test or see your doctor and get tested as soon as possible.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/maternal-or-infant-illnesses/hiv.html

There are two main types of the HIV virus: HIV-1 and HIV-2. While both weaken the immune system, HIV-2 develops more slowly and has a lower transmission rate than HIV-1.

HIV-1 is the most common type of HIV, and it occurs all over the world. It is estimated that around 95% of people living with HIV have HIV-1.

HIV-2 is mainly present in West Africa, but it is slowly starting to appear in other regions, including the United States, Europe, and India.

Though HIV-1 and HIV-2 are both retroviruses that can have similar effects on the human body, they are genetically distinct. This means that not all tests and treatments work for both types of HIV.

The OraQuick® Self-Test has been approved by the FDA to detect antibodies to both HIV-1 and HIV-2.

The majority of HIV infections are HIV-1. HIV-2 occurs predominantly in West Africa, but has been reported in other countries, including the United States.

Anything that puts you at risk of acquiring HIV-1 poses the same risk of acquiring HIV-2 if engaging with someone who is living with HIV-2. Getting an HIV test is the only way to tell whether you’re living with HIV-1 or HIV-2 and you should speak to your healthcare provider if you feel you’ve been exposed.

The OraQuick® Self-Test has been approved by the FDA to detect antibodies for both HIV-1 and HIV-2.

Most everyday work activities do not put you at risk for HIV. There is no danger in working with someone who is HIV-infected or who has AIDS.

The risk of healthcare workers coming into contact with HIV on the job is also very low if they follow Standard Precautions at all times. Assume that blood and other body fluids are potentially infectious.

*Use gloves, goggles, and other barriers when anticipating contact with blood or body fluids.
* Wash hands and other skin surfaces immediately after contact with blood or body fluids.
* Be careful when handling and disposing of sharp instruments during and after use.
* Use safety devices to prevent needle-stick injuries.
* Dispose of used syringes or other sharp instruments in a sharps container.

The main risk of HIV transmission (spread) for healthcare workers is through accidental injuries from needles and other sharp instruments that may be contaminated (tainted) with the virus.

There are no known cases in the United States of anyone getting HIV this way. It is possible to get HIV from tattooing or body piercing if the equipment or ink has someone else’s blood in it.

This is more likely to happen when the person doing the procedure is unlicensed because they may use unsterilized needles or ink.

If you get a tattoo or a body piercing, be sure that the person doing the procedure is properly licensed and uses only new or sterilized equipment.

If your OraQuick® HIV Self-Test is positive, you need a second test to confirm your test result. You should see a healthcare provider to obtain a follow up test in a medical setting.

A healthcare professional must confirm your OraQuick® HIV Self-Test result. It can be scary to find out that you may have a chronic condition that you will need to manage, and that’s okay.

Reaching out to friends and family, mental health professionals, support groups, or doing activities like journaling are all potential things you may try as you decide what next steps make sense for you.

There are many people and organizations in communities around the country who are ready, willing, and able to help you. The key is to ask for help as soon as possible.

We are happy to give you resources to help you identify a healthcare provider to reach out to if you would like. There is much you can do to stay healthy. Learn all that you can about maintaining good health.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

Treatment of HIV-2 may be different than treatment of HIV-1.

The Adult and Adolescent Antiretroviral (ART) Guidelines recommend starting antiretroviral therapy at or soon after HIV-2 diagnosis to prevent disease progression and transmission of HIV-2 to others.

The Guidelines also recommend a combination of multiple drugs to treat HIV-2. If you have been diagnosed with HIV-2, please speak with your healthcare provider about any additional questions you might have.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

Scientists and medical authorities agree that HIV does not survive well outside the body. This means that the risk of environmental transmission (spreading) is very small.

HIV cannot reproduce outside the body, except in a lab setting. So, HIV does not spread or stay infectious (able to spread) outside of the body. The virus does not survive outside the body.

HIV infection in humans likely came from a type of chimpanzee in Central Africa. Studies show that HIV may have jumped from chimpanzees to humans as far back as the late 1800s.

It was probably passed to humans when humans hunted these chimpanzees for meat and came in contact with their infected blood. Over the years, HIV slowly spread across Africa and later into other parts of the world.

The virus has existed in the United States since at least the mid to late 1970s.

Post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP, means taking medicine to prevent HIV after a possible exposure.

PEP should be used only in emergency situations and must be started within 72 hours after the possible exposure to HIV.

Anyone who thinks they might have been exposed to HIV should seek the advice of their healthcare provider right away.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/pep.html

Post-exposure prophylaxis (pro-fuh-LAK-sis) (PEP), or treatment, is used when a person has been exposed to a virus, such as HIV, and is at risk of getting infected.

PEP may be given to people who seek care within 72 hours of an exposure that is considered to be high risk for transmission (spreading) and has involved an exposure to:
* blood,
* genital fluids, or
* other potentially infectious body fluids of a person known to have HIV.

Post-exposure treatment for other situations is left up to the decision of the doctor or healthcare provider providing treatment.

PEP can lower that person's chances of getting infected with the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends antiretroviral (AN-tie-ret-roh-VIE-ruhl) drugs be given after an exposure to HIV.

If you have questions about post-exposure treatment to prevent HIV infection, talk to your healthcare provider.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends antiretroviral (AN-tie-ret-roh-VIE-ruhl) drugs be given after exposure to HIV:
* For healthcare workers exposed on the job; and
* For some exposures outside of work settings.

If you are a healthcare professional and have questions about post-exposure treatment to prevent HIV infection, contact the National HIV/AIDS Clinicians' Consultation Center.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
https://nccc.ucsf.edu/
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv

If you have HIV, you can spread the virus to others whether you have symptoms or not. In fact, many people infected with HIV don't show symptoms for many years. HIV can be transmitted (spread) at all stages of the disease.

It's important to note that infected pregnant people who don't have symptoms can also transmit HIV to their fetus (unborn baby).

If you get an STI, you are more likely to get HIV than someone who is STI-free. This is because the same behaviors and circumstances that may put you at risk for getting an STI (not using condoms, multiple partners, anonymous partners) can also put you at greater risk for getting HIV.

In addition, having a sore or break in the skin from an STI may allow HIV to enter your body more easily.

If an HIV-infected person is also infected with another STI, they are more likely to transmit, or spread, HIV through sexual contact than other HIV-infected people.

Studies have shown that using a condom is a good way to prevent the spread of HIV and some other STIs, if the condom is used the right way every time you have sex. If you or your partner are allergic to latex, you can use plastic (polyurethane) (pol-ee-YOOR-uh-thayn) male or female condoms.

There are no drugs that can totally prevent HIV, but there are FDA approved drugs that can help reduce the risk of becoming infected. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medicine that reduces your chances of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV. Contact a health care professional to get more information about PrEP and other preventive measures that may be available to you.

There are a number of non-latex options that are available to prevent the transmission of STIs and HIV. You can look for condoms that are made from polyurethane or polyisoprene.

Both of these are non-latex alternatives that are effective but may be more prone to breakage than latex condoms. Please consult the instructions for these products before using them so that you understand how to use them and how they work.

Depending on what sexual activities you’d like to engage in, you may also want to consider vaginal condoms or dental dams. Vaginal condoms, which are inserted into the vagina before intercourse, are made of nitrile, a synthetic latex substitute.

Dental dams, which are thin, flexible sheets of material that provide a barrier between the mouth and genitals for oral sex, have both latex and non-latex options available. There are also other non-barrier methods of protection.

If you are interested, PrEP or PEP are medications that you take either consistently or immediately after an HIV exposure, and have high rates of effectiveness at preventing HIV. If these options are of interest to you, please discuss them with a healthcare provider. Have open communication with your sexual partners.

Discuss your latex allergy with them and collaborate on finding a suitable barrier method or other forms of protection that work for both of you.

External Resources

For additional information on many topics related to HIV, AIDS and sexual health, please refer to the following websites:
www.hiv.gov
www.cdc.gov/hiv
PrEP Provider Locator: https://preplocator.org

You can still have a fulfilling sex life if you are living with HIV. There are several things that you can do to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others:
• Achieving and maintaining an undetectable viral load is associated with a significantly lower risk of transmitting HIV to sexual partners. An undetectable viral load means that the amount of HIV in the blood is so low that it cannot be detected by standard tests
• Using barrier protection, like condoms and dental dams, can reduce the risk of HIV and other STIs. Condoms are effective at preventing HIV and other STIs.
• If your partner or partners are HIV negative, you can have conversations with them about PrEP, medication that you take when you are HIV negative that has a high effectiveness rate of preventing HIV. We encourage you to consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about the types of sex you would like to have.

Your healthcare provider can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances. In addition, open and honest communication between partners is important.

Both partners should be comfortable with the decision and fully understand the potential risks. We encourage you to discuss this choice with your partner before engaging in sexual activities.

The Western blot is a type of HIV test that was formerly used to confirm a positive HIV antibody screening test. The Western blot measures antibodies to HIV. Antibodies are proteins produced by the body's immune (defense) system to fight infection. Today, the most common procedure to confirm a positive HIV antibody screening test is by performing a laboratory antigen/antibody test, and if positive, a viral load test which measures the amount of HIV in your blood.

Additional Questions

The OraQuick Support Center provides information about the OraQuick® HIV tests and some basic information about HIV. We are not equipped to handle questions or comments about OraSure Technologies, Inc. (OTI).

If you have specific questions or comments about OraSure or the design and development of their products, please contact OraSure Customer Service. In the US: 1-800-ORASURE (1-800-672-7873) or Outside the US (001) 610-882-1820 or the website www.orasure.com

The OraQuick Support Center can only provide information about the OraQuick® HIV tests and some basic information about HIV. If you are seeking more in-depth information about HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), please contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC Division of STD Prevention provides a wide array of information about STDs. You can visit their website or you can call them toll-free at 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).

If you think you might be infected with an STD, please talk to your doctor as soon as possible.

The OraQuick Support Center can only provide information about the OraQuick® HIV tests and some basic information about HIV. If you have questions about sex education, please talk with your doctor. They will be able to provide you with information and/or resources that will address your questions or concerns.

You can also contact your state or local health department.

The OraQuick Support Center provides information about the OraQuick® HIV tests and some basic information about HIV. If you have questions or concerns regarding your health, please talk with your healthcare provider. They will be able to provide you with information and/or a diagnosis about your concern(s).

If you think you need urgent medical attention, you should call 911 immediately.

The OraQuick® HIV Self-Test is the only rapid HIV test available for use by consumers. There are other HIV tests licensed for use by healthcare professionals in the U.S. As with all screening tests, a positive test result must be confirmed by a follow-up test in a professional setting by a healthcare professional.

Talk with your doctor about lifestyle changes you should make as a result of being HIV positive. They will be able to help you figure out what is best for you and your situation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that you do not smoke, drink, or use illegal drugs if you have HIV. Smoking cigarettes, drinking too much alcohol, or using illegal drugs can weaken your immunity (body's defense). Living a healthy lifestyle can help you stay well longer.

The OraQuick® HIV Self-Test can test for both HIV-1 and HIV-2. It is the only HIV self-test available for use by consumers. Other tests for HIV-2 are available through your healthcare provider. The availability of these tests varies. If you’d like more information about being tested for HIV-2, please talk to your healthcare provider.