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Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
What is HIV and AIDS?
HIV is a virus (micro-organism) that enters your body and then attacks and after some time (months to years) weakens your immune system. It is sometimes called the AIDS virus. When your immune system is weak, you are likely to acquire other serious conditions such as pneumonia or tuberculosis. When this happens you are said to have AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).
What you should know
- HIV can affect anyone no matter what age.
- More and more people are being infected with HIV.
- You may be at risk.
- Seeking help early for HIV is important, as it could better your chances of living a longer and healthier life.
- Many people who are infected with HIV look fit and healthy.
- It is advisable that all South Africans know their HIV status.
Symptoms
Within two months of infection many people develop flu-like symptoms, swelling of glands or a rash.
Are you worried that you may have HIV?
There is only one way to find out whether you are infected with HIV. You need to get tested.
The test
Before being tested you need to understand what the test involves and what the results will mean.
Pre-test counselling
The following will be discussed:
- The importance of your decision to take the test.
- How the test result may change your life.
- The need for a follow-up appointment.
- How the test is done and when you will get the result.
- The meaning of negative results.
- The ‘window' period.
- The meaning of a positive test.
- Normal reactions to a negative or a positive test result.
- Available support from the medical scheme to which you belong.
- Confidentiality of your test and test results.
Testing for HIV
The test for HIV requires that a sample of your blood be taken to detect the possible presence of antibodies to the HIV produced by your body. If anti-bodies are present you have this infection.
Post-test counselling
The following will be discussed:
- If the test is negative - another test in three months' time will be advised to exclude a possible ‘window' period being responsible for a false negative result.
- If the test is positive - the possible progress of your condition will be discussed.
- The following will also be discussed:
- your understanding of the test result and how it will change your life;
- how you may spread the virus to others;
- who you want to tell and who you need to tell;
- the importance of telling your sexual partners;
- referral to your doctor;
- available support; and
- the HIV/AIDS benefits available on your medical scheme.
Living with HIV/AIDS
Although there's no cure for HIV, there is a great deal that can be done to slow the progression of the condition.
These include:
- following a healthy diet;
- doing regular exercise;
- getting regular sleep; and
- decreasing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking.
Click on the following links to read more articles about HIV and AIDS:
What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?
Living with HIV/AIDS
Related infections
Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs)
Pregnancy
