Good News:

HIV is highly preventable with the right precautions and knowledge.

Safe Sex Practices

Use condoms correctly: Male/female condoms every time for vaginal, anal, oral sex
Reduce partners: Fewer sexual partners = lower risk
Know partner status: Get tested together before unprotected sex
Avoid alcohol/drugs during sex: Impaired judgment increases risk

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Daily pill: 99% effective for sexual transmission when taken daily
Who should consider: High-risk groups, HIV-negative with positive partner
Regular testing required: HIV test every 3 months while on PrEP
Consult doctor: Prescription required, kidney monitoring needed

Avoid High-Risk Behaviors

Never share needles: For drugs, tattoos, piercings - use sterile equipment
Avoid unprotected sex with strangers: Unknown HIV status = high risk
Don't share razors/toothbrushes: Blood contact risk

Regular Testing

Know your status: Get tested at least once if sexually active
Annual testing: If you have multiple partners or new partner
After exposure: Test at appropriate window periods

Treatment as Prevention (TasP)

If your partner is HIV-positive and on effective treatment, their risk of transmitting HIV drops dramatically. When HIV treatment keeps viral load undetectable for at least 6 months, transmission risk is effectively ZERO. This is called U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).

If your partner is HIV-positive:

Encourage them to start/continue ART treatment
Ensure they maintain undetectable viral load
Regular viral load monitoring (every 3-6 months)
Use condoms for added protection until viral load is undetectable
Consider PrEP for yourself as additional protection

How to Protect Yourself from HIV Infection