On June 27, we observe National HIV Testing Day, which is a perfect time to raise awareness about getting tested for HIV. Having an HIV test is a smart move because early detection and treatment can lead to a longer, healthier life for people with HIV.
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) spreads through contact with the blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, or breast milk of an HIV-infected person. HIV attacks and destroys your immune system, which makes it harder for your body to fight off infection and disease.
When HIV infection advances to a very serious stage, it can develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which can be fatal.
Fortunately, early detection and treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART) drugs can help people with HIV preserve their health and avoid getting AIDS. People taking ART medications can live a relatively healthy life for many years.
Although 1.1 million Americans carry HIV in their blood, about 14% of them don’t know they’re infected. If you have HIV, it’s best to know about it, so you can start treatment as soon as possible. Dr. Choudhary recommends HIV testing if you meet any of the following criteria:
Everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested at least once, even if you don’t engage in risky behavior. If you do have a high risk of infection, Dr. Choudhary may recommend that you be tested every year or more frequently.
Condoms reduce the chances that HIV will spread during sexual activity. However, even if you do use a condom, you could still get HIV if you have sex with an infected partner. HIV can spread through any kind of sexual activity — oral, vaginal, or anal.
This is especially important if you don’t regularly use a condom while having sex. Even if you don’t engage in risky behaviors, you could get HIV if your partner does.
Although anyone can get infected with HIV, gay and bisexual men account for about 70% of new HIV infections.
HIV can spread if you share needles, syringes, or other types of drug equipment with infected people.
Having certain types of health conditions or infections makes you more vulnerable to HIV.
Women with HIV risk passing it on to their babies. However, taking HIV medications during pregnancy can dramatically reduce the risk of mother-to-baby transmission. It’s a good idea to be tested for HIV before each pregnancy, or as early as possible after you find out you’re pregnant.
If this happens, you should be tested immediately. A drug regimen known as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may prevent HIV infection.
Dr. Choudhary understands that thinking about HIV can cause stress and anxiety. A desire for peace of mind is a good enough reason to be tested.
If HIV testing finds the virus in your body, Dr. Choudhary will talk with you about starting ART medications. He’ll also share information about protecting your partner, taking good care of your health, and getting any support you may need.
Don’t put it off. If you’re near the Lansdowne area of Virginia, schedule an HIV test today by calling us at the Infectious Diseases Tropical Medicine & Travel Clinic. Or simply click the button on the website to use online booking.
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