I have just been diagnosed with HIV and AIDS...I am going to die.
Fact
This is the biggest myth of all. In fact people are living with HIV and AIDS longer today than ever before. Medications, treatment programs, and a better understanding of HIV and AIDS allows those infected to live normal, healthy, productive lives.
2
Myth
You can catch HIV/AIDS from cups, glasses, cutlery, towels, toilet seats, mosquitos, coughing, sneezing, shaking hands, giving blook or kissing.
Fact
High concentrations of HIV are found in blood, semen, vaginal fluid and breast milk only. HIV cannot live for long outside the body, so to be infected with HIV you would have to participate in an activity that would involve the exchange of one or more of these four fluids with an infected person. Body fluids such as sweat, tears, saliva and urine do not contain enough of the virus to transmit it from one person to another. The virus can enter the body via contact with the bloodstream or by passing through delicate mucous membranes, such as inside the vagina, rectum or urethra.
The most common ways that people become infected with HIV are:
Having sexual intercourse (vaginal, oral or anal) with an infected partner.
Sharing a needle or syringe that has been used by someone who is infected (including for use in tattooing, body piercing, insulin, steroids, etc.)
As a baby of an infected mother, during pregnancy, labour or delivery, or through breastfeeding.
More uncommon ways that people become infected with HIV are:
Occupational exposure (very rare)
Blood Transfusion (very, very, rare)
3
Myth
HIV and AIDS can be cured.
Fact
While many make claims of miraculous cures, the sad truth is there is no cure for HIV and AIDS. Be careful of claims or cures and miracles. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.
4
Myth
My family doctor can treat my HIV and AIDS.
Fact
The fact is, experts believe that given the complexities of HIV and AIDS care, only HIV specialists should manage your care. Be sure to choose a doctor who cares for HIV and AIDS patients regularly.
5
Myth
We don't need a condom for oral sex.
Fact
Again, untrue, and a very dangerous myth. Condoms must be used each and every sexual encounter; vaginal, anal and oral.
6
Myth
I have HIV and AIDS...I can't have children.
Fact
This used to be true but not anymore. Women living with HIV and AIDS can and do have families. While certain steps and precautions have to be taken, women can now have the families they always dreamed about.
7
Myth
People over 50 don't get HIV and AIDS.
Fact
Don't bet on it. In fact, people over 50 make up a rapidly growing segment of the HIV and AIDS population.
Not true. Experts are seeing more and more incidences of re-infection, making HIV and AIDS treatment even more difficult.
9
Myth
HIV and AIDS only affects gay men and drug users
Fact
In fact, HIV and AIDS can infect anyone. Babies, women, seniors over 50, teens, blacks, whites and Hispanics. Risky behavior can lead to infection in anyone.
10
Myth
HIV and AIDS are the Same Thing
Fact
In fact this couldn't be further from the truth. HIV is a virus and AIDS is a collection of illnesses. Knowing the difference between the two is a very important part of understanding both. Simply put HIV and AIDS are not the same thing.
