HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
This is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV weakens and destroys the immune system making it harder for the body to fight other diseases and infections.
AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
It is the last stage of HIV. AIDS is only diagnosed in people who are HIV positive that are not being effectively treated, have a severely weakened immune system (with a CD4 count of less than 200), or who acquire what’s called an opportunistic infection, condition, or disease.
HIV transmission occurs when the blood, semen (includes pre-cum), vaginal secretions, and/or breast milk of an HIV-positive person enters the body of an uninfected person. HIV is most commonly spread through:
This includes unprotected vaginal, anal, and oral sex
Using someone else’s needle to inject any drug or medication, for tattoos, or piercings. When sharing, try to be the first to use the needle. Always use a new, sterile needle when injecting drugs or medication, or when receiving a new tattoo or piercing
This can occur before or during childbirth. Infection can also occur through breastfeeding
Our doors are always open; if you have any questions about HIV/AIDS, need a test, or just want someone to talk to, stop by our office.
If you have an immediate question or concern, use our anonymous texting service to get an answer within 24 hours.
We provide culturally sensitive educational workshops for populations most at risk for HIV infection including adolescents, women and men with a history of substance abuse, and men who have sex with other men.
Need Bebashi to sponsor or attend an event at your school, neighborhood, or church? Contact us and we’ll get back to you.
