Get The Facts

Get The Facts

• AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a disease characterized by the breakdown of the body's immune system as a result of infection with the the human immunodeficiency virus, (HIV) often referred to as the AIDS virus.
• Research to date has confirmed that the virus is transmitted in three ways:
  a) through vaginal, anal, and possibly, oral intercourse with a person infected with HIV;
  b) through direct entry of infected blood or blood components into the blood stream, particularly by sharing needles and syringes with an infected person;
  c) from mother to child in utero, during childbirth or through breast feeding.
• No vaccine exists to provide immunity, nor is there a cure for AIDS or HIV infection. Recent tests with experimental drugs have shown promise that the course of the disease can be slowed
• Several years may pass before an infected person shows clinical symptoms of HIV infection or AIDS.
• Numerous scientific studies have shown that the AIDS virus, HIV, is not spread by indirect or casual contact (for example sneezing, shaking hands, hugging, perfunctory kissing or being in the same classroom with someone who is infected.
• Latex condoms, when properly used, have been shown to be effective as a barrier to HIV but they are not fool proof. When used with contraceptive jelly, cream or foam containing spermicides, condoms are believed to be the most effective means for preventing HIV spread among persons who engage in sexual intercourse and who are now maintaining a mutually, monogamous relationship.