HOW YOU DO CATCH IT!
HIV is passed from one person to another in sexual fluids (both semen and vaginal), and from blood to blood contact. This may happen during sexual intercourse, from a mother who has the virus to her baby during birth, or when having needles to inject drugs. In New Zealand blood, semen and sperm donors are screened for HIV, but it doesn't happen in all countries at this time.

HOW YOU DON'T CATCH 1T
Mutual masturbation - hugging kissing, etc - insect bites - sharing cups, plates, cutlery, etc - toilet seats - sharing towels, linen, etc.
Nor do you catch HIV/ AIDS by working with, living with, or caring For someone with HTV/ AIDS.

SAFE AND SAFER BEHAVIOURS
Yes there is a difference. When we talk about safe behaviours we mean behaviours in which there is no chance of infection.
Safe behaviour is basically abstaining from all sex with a partner
not injecting any drugs into your self.

For many people this is not realistic or even desirable. Therefore safer behaviours may be the next option. For safer sex the use of a condom and a water based lubricant, EVERY TIME you have sex is essential.

If you inject drugs, whether it be opiates, steroids, or insulin always use a needle and syringe. If a fit must be reused then apply the 2x2x.2 method (rinse it 2 times in cold water, 2 times with household chlorine bleach, and rinse again at least 2 more times in cold water or when you can no Longer smell any bleach from your fit.

Remember, Its generally impossible just by looking at someone to tell if they have HIV Keeping yourself safe is your no. 1. best precaution.

SYMPTOMS
The symptorns below are all common to other infections or diseases so HIV/ AIDS is not an automatic conclusion. - swollen glands, especially in the neck, groin, and armpits persistent unexplained tiredness recurring infections, such as shingles, herpes simplex, and boils recurring fevers and night sweats unexplained weight loss persistent diarrhoea headache, including short term memory loss and lack of concentration, shortness of breath and dry cough skin disease, rashes, acne, and dry skin, persistent white patches in the mouth and on the tongue.

HIV/AIDS TESTING

The test for HIV is a simple blood test. You can get the test at an SHS (STID) Clinic, the Family Planning Clinic or your GP it is free. It shows whether you have signs of the virus. The test is confidential and a code is used instead of your name. There is a window period of up to 3 months prior to the test where you may not pick up antibodies. If advised a further test after another three month period may be desirable.

All people requiring HIV tests should receive both pre and post-test counselling which is also free. Pre-test counselling prepares you for a possible positive result, discussion on -general health and your reasons for testing and risk status. Post-test counselling involve discussion of the test result and behaviour and lifestyle changes required to avoid infection or as a result of infection

TREATING HIV/AIDS
Currently there is no cure or vaccine against HIV/AIDS. In the fight against the virus is success dependant on persuading people to change at-risk behaviour.
Medical care can provide some relief from symptoms and can treat opportunistic infections but the virus itself cannot be eradicated or halted.