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HIV/AIDSDescriptionHIV is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus that causes failure of part of the immune system. The immune system is important because it defends the body from infection and disease. HIV infects and destroys key cells in the body. It particularly targets a cell called CD4 (also know as a T4 cell or T helper cell). CD4 cells are an essential component of the immune system which is important in protecting the body against infection and disease. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) refers to a range of specific illnesses that people with HIV may get when their immune system is badly damaged. These illnesses include infections and cancers. The presence of HIV in the body is not an AIDS diagnosis. It is possible for people to have HIV for many years but show no symptoms that define AIDS. TransmissionHIV is only infectious in blood, cum (semen), pre-cum, vaginal fluids and breast milk. A person can only become infected with HIV if one of these body fluids containing HIV gets into their body and passes into their bloodstream. For gay men, the main ways in which this occurs is through unprotected sex (fucking or being fucked without using condoms) or sharing injecting equipment. For HIV positive men the presence of other STIs increases the levels of HIV in semen and therefore increases the risk of HIV transmission. Similarly, HIV may be present in genital ulcers caused by other STIs at levels high enough for HIV transmission to occur. For HIV negative men having another STI can cause inflammation in the site of infection or ulcers, which increase the chances of picking up HIV. Signs and SymptomsHIV seroconversion is the term used to describe the process when someone goes from being HIV negative to HIV positive. This can happen between two weeks and three months after infection. Some people show no signs of infection during this time. Others experience seroconversion illness which can include flu-like symptoms, fever, rashes, a sore throat and swollen glands. Symptoms of ongoing HIV infection may include unexplained diarrhoea, weight loss, recurrent rashes, fever or an AIDS-related illness. AIDS-related illnesses include illnesses like pneumonia, brain infections, skin cancers, and severe fungal infections. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) may develop between 1 and 20 years after infection. The average is about 12 years, with treatment usually extending this. TestingThe test for HIV is an antibody blood test. Antibodies are the immune system’s response to infection. It can take between 2 weeks and 3 months for the body to produce antibodies. So if an antibody test is done during this window period it is likely to show up negative. There are other tests, called antigen tests, available that may provide a quicker diagnosis. These may be done with your initial test but consult your doctor or health care worker for more information. TreatmentThere is no vaccine or cure for HIV, but there are numerous HIV treatment options available. Treatment for HIV is currently provided by highly active anti-viral medications. These attack the virus at different points and stages in its lifecycle. PreventionWhen used correctly condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV being picked up or passed on. For HIV negative men, giving oral sex (that is, sucking a dick) is considered low risk. Having cuts or sores in your mouth, having an STI in your throat or having had recent dental work increases the risk. During these times, using a condom, avoiding cum in your mouth or avoiding oral sex will reduce the risk. For HIV positive guys, having an STI in your dick will increase the chances of passing on HIV when receiving oral sex. Getting tested regularly and not cumming in your partner’s mouth will reduce this risk. Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)If you think you may have been exposed to HIV you should consider getting PEP. PEP is a 4 week course of anti-HIV drugs which may prevent HIV infection, provided the treatment is started as soon as possible after the potential exposure. To be most effective, PEP should be started as soon as possible after exposure to HIV. If it is not started within 72 hours (3 days) it is not likely to work. To get PEP contact your local sexual health clinic, hospital emergency department or the 24 hour PEP hotline. 24 hour PEP hotline 1800 PEP NOW (1800 737 669). This page last updated 23 July 2008 |
