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HIV FACTS
African Americans Have the Highest Rate of HIV Infection in the U.S.
Today, African-Americans continue to face the most severe rates of HIV infection in the nation. The latest estimates indicate that while blacks make up just 12 percent of the U.S. population, they account for nearly half of new HIV infections. The harsh reality is that 1 in 16 black men will be diagnosed with HIV at some point in their lifetime, as will 1 in 30 black women.
There Is Not A Cure for HIV
Medical science is working hard to find a cure but right now there is no cure. For anyone. Anywhere.
However, HIV is Not A Death Sentence!
People are living longer, healthier lives due to early diagnosis and treatment with medications.
How Can You Tell if Someone is Infected with HIV?
You cannot tell if someone has HIV or AIDS just by looking at them. Someone may be HIV positive and still look very healthy — they are also able to pass the HIV virus on to you! A blood test is the only way a person can know if they are infected with HIV.
How is HIV Transmitted?
HIV is spread through blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. The most common ways people are infected with HIV are through having sex or sharing needles with someone who is infected.
How You CANNOT Get HIV
You cannot get HIV by casual contact such as shaking hands, hugging or kissing someone. HIV is not spread by living or working with someone who is HIV positive, or through sharing food, plates, cups or forks. HIV is not spread through sharing toilets, tubs or swimming pools.
How Can I Protect Myself from HIV?
Not having sex is the only sure way to avoid getting HIV through sex; don't share needles or syringes to shoot drugs for anything else. Use a latex condom every time you have sex.
Getting Tested Sooner is Better
Knowing your HIV status is important because research shows that early treatment can help delay the onset of AIDS. You can also take steps to avoid infecting other people with HIV.
How Does the Test Work?
Your test can be free and confidential. HIV "rapid tests" are available that enable you to get results in just 20 minutes rather than 2 weeks. Saliva and blood can all be used to test for HIV — you don't have to get stuck with a needle in order to get tested for HIV.
What Kind of Help Can I Get If My Test is Positive?
Medication and care is available for those who test positive, regardless of their income level. The Ohio Department of Health HIV Care Services Section can help pay for medications, insurance premiums and co-pays. HIV case managers — licensed social workers specially trained to work in HIV/AIDS — provide free and confidential services throughout Ohio. Case managers help people with HIV find services, such as medical care, treatment, transportation to appointments, support groups, and housing.
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