World AIDS Day

Posted in December 1st, 2007

The 1st of December is known as the World AIDS Day. As there is no vaccine for AIDS the only way we can fight it is knowledge. So here are some information about the virus, we all need to know!

WHAT IS HIV/AIDS?
It is a contagious, disease, caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus) and destroys the defense system of the body.
HOW IS IT TRANSMITTED?
• Through unprotected sex with people infected by HIV
• By sharing needles or syringes with an HIV infected person
• From an HIV-infected mother; during pregnancy, labor and breastfeeding
AM I AT RISK OF BEING INFECTED?
Yes you are in the following cases:
1 ) When have sex without using a condom.

2 ) With sharing injecting equipment, such as tattoo and piercing needles, as well as with sharing a syringe with drug users.

No you are not at risk in the following cases:
1 ) When you hug somebody.

2 ) When you shake hands.

3 ) If someone coughs or sneezes close to you.

4 ) When you give someone a kiss.

5 ) When you swim in the sea.

6 ) When you eat in restaurants.

7 ) When you use someone else’s toilet or towels.

8 ) When you use someone else’s plates or glasses.

9 ) From mosquito bites.

10 ) When you give blood. (Blood Donation)
There is no vaccine for it!
HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF?
• Having and being a single faithful sexual partner.(No HIV-infected)
• By regularly and correctly using condoms during any type of sexual intercourse and with all sexual partners.
• Using disposable syringes.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CONDOMS:
1) Always make sure you have condoms on you and to use a new condom every time you have sex, even if it is with the same person. Condoms need to be sealed undamaged packages Always keep in mind to check the expiry date.
2) Tear the package open carefully and do not use sharp objects or your teeth as you risk damaging the condom.
3) Do not use lubricants, such as Vaseline, because they are oil-based and may destroy the condom. Get a water-based lubricant.
4) Keep them in a cool place as high temperatures may destroy them.
HAVING UNPROTECTED SEX ONCE IS ENOUGH TO BE INFECTED BY THE VIRUS.
We may think that AIDS is not likely to infect us or anyone we care about. But:
AIDS has killed more than 25 million people since 1981 (when the disease was first recognized). During 2007 2.1 million people died of AIDS when 33.2 million people are currently infected with the virus.
So help other people get informed about this issue on that special day. Pass this message to as many people as you can!