HIV—or human immunodeficiency virus—is a virus spread through certain body fluids that weakens a person’s immune system by destroying important cells that fight disease and infection. There is no cure for HIV, but with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled.
Frequently Asked Questions
For more questions and answers about HIV and AIDS, please visit the CDC Website.
Q1:
How is HIV transmitted?
A:
HIV can be transmitted through sexual contact, by sharing needles (to inject drugs), and from the mother to a baby during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding. To learn more specific information about how HIV is transmitted, visit the CDC Website.
Q2:
How can the spread of HIV be prevented?
A:
Abstinence (not having sex of any kind), is the only way to prevent the spread of HIV 100%. Other effective ways to reduce the risk include:
- Limiting your number of sexual partners
- Use condoms correctly every time you have sex
- Never share needles
If you're already living with HIV or if you have a high risk for HIV, there are other options. Visit the CDC website to learn more about how to prevent the spread of HIV.
Q3:
How can I know if I have HIV?
A:
The only way to know for sure whether you have HIV is to get tested. CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. To learn more about HIV testing, and to find a test center near you, visit the CDC website.
Fact Sheets
| File |
Description |
|
| HIV Testing 101 |
This fact sheet from the CDC offers information about who should get tested, where to get tested and details about positive and negative results. |
|
| Living with HIV 101 |
This fact sheet from the CDC offers resources for those already living with HIV. |
|
| U.S. Military HIV Research Program |
The U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP) is at the forefront of the battle against HIV to protect U.S. troops from infection and to reduce the global impact of the disease. |
|
DoD HIV/AIDS Prevention Program
The Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program (DHAPP) is responsible for assisting foreign military partners with the development and implementation of culturally focused, military-specific HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment programs in over 65 countries around the globe.
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