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HIV

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)  is, as the name informs, a virus that attacks the immune system.  Recent research suggests that over 70% of people may experience symptoms of infection a few days after having been infected.  This is manifested as three symptoms occurring together: fever, rash and a severe sore throat. Should you suffer these symptoms a few days after a sexual encounter, you should consider it a potential indicator of infection.

However it must be remembered that some may not experience these early symptoms at all. Without early detection and effective treatment,  the immune system will be severely weakened and unable to fight off illness and disease.

The HIV virus is spread in sexual fluids and blood.

Because no vaccine for HIV is available, the only way to prevent infection by the virus is to avoid behaviour that puts you at risk of infection, such as sharing needles and having unprotected sex.

As explained, many people infected with HIV have no symptoms. Therefore, there is no way of knowing with certainty whether your sexual partner is infected unless he or she has repeatedly tested negative for the virus and has not engaged in any risky behaviour. Although some laboratory evidence shows that spermicides can kill the HIV virus, researchers have not found that these products can prevent infection and the Public health Agency of Canada has conducted research indicating that some spermicides may actually increase transmission rates. In other words, spermicides should not be relied upon.

HIV & AIDS

AIDS – acquired immune deficiency syndrome – is not the same as HIV.
A person is considered to have developed AIDS when the immune system is weakened to the degree that it can no longer resist a range of diseases with which it would normally cope. There is no cure for HIV, but treatment can keep the virus under control and the immune system healthy.  People on HIV treatment can live a healthy, active life, although they may experience side effects from the treatment.

Early detection is critical - if HIV is diagnosed late, treatment may be less effective in preventing AIDS.

If you have any worries about a recent sexual encounter, it is a very wise step to have an HIV test conducted.

PLEASE NOTE:
The information provided is intended only as a general guide to provide an overview of the condition. It must not be relied upon for any medical purpose.
Symptoms can vary a great deal from person to person, and the symptoms for various conditions can be identical.  
We therefore advise strongly against any self-diagnosis or self treatment based on this information and indeed, as a general principle.

The identification and treatment of any condition should be conducted only by a medical professional after due consultation.

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