HIV and AIDS: Myths V/S Facts
In India, we talk about anything and everything but we don’t talk about SEX or anything related to sex such as HIV and AIDS wonder why?
This is the 21st Century though we live in a Modern Era. But, when it comes to any Disease, Virus, FLU, or anything likewise, we Indians tend to have certain assumptions or Superstitions that are passed on from generation to generation.
There are a lot of misunderstandings about the disease but not everything you hear about is True. So, here’s busting certain Myths along with the Facts about HIV and AIDS that has been passed on and still it is being talked about.
1) Myth: People with HIV/AIDS look Weak & Unhealthy
Facts: How can we conclude that someone is healthy or weak just by looking at someone? No, we can’t just assume it like that. Many people believe that people who are not immune to the virus eventually become thin and that means they are unhealthy and weak. But that’s not the case. The only way to know the status of your health is by getting a health check-up. You can be HIV positive and still be healthy, running & productive.
2) Myth: HIV is the same as AIDS
Facts: HIV is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus that causes AIDS i.e. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Being HIV Positive doesn’t mean you have AIDS too. It may take up to several years for people with HIV to develop AIDS. The best advice is to get yourself tested before it gets out of control.
3) Myth: HIV/AIDS can be transmitted through Mosquito bites
Facts: No, Mosquitos aren’t humans and the HIV/AIDS virus can only be transmitted from one human to another human if they directly come in contact with bodily fluids.
4) Myth: I can’t be tested positive for HIV/AIDS as I’m Religious
Facts: Yes, you can anyone can get tested for the disease just like we get tested for cold or cough. It’s that easy. Also, the disease or the virus in your body has nothing to do with Religion. So, get tested without any IF’s and BUT’s.
5) Myth: Only Prostitutes are HIV/AIDS Positive
Facts: Any human being regardless of its gender, age, sexual orientation, race, etc. who is sexually active can be exposed to the virus and can be infected.
6) Myth: Men’s transfers the virus to the baby during pregnancy
Facts: The virus is found in body fluids. The baby can be infected with the virus only at birth when a mother goes into labor and when the baby’s body fluids get mixed with the mother’s blood. If the mother has sexually transmitted the virus or diseases at the time of pregnancy then there is a higher chance that the baby may be infected with the virus in the womb.
7) Myth: I can’t be friends with an HIV/AIDS positive person or else I will be infected too
Facts: You can’t get the virus through hugging, shaking hands, sharing equipment or passing a glass of water to someone. The virus is found and can only be transmitted through Blood or Body fluids.
8) Myth: HIV/AIDS can be cured
Facts: There is no proven remedy or cure for the disease but it can be brought into control through proper medication and regular treatment which can help a person with the virus to lead a healthy life as same as any other normal being.
9) Myth: I don’t have HIV/AIDS I can have unprotected sex
Facts: Unprotected Sex brings out the higher risk of coming in contact with the virus and one can easily get infected. Sex and all is cool if it’s protected never forget to use a condom as you know Prevention is better than cure isn’t it?
10) Myth: Sex with HIV Negative person can cure HIV
Facts: NO, it’s not Math’s where one negative and one positive will give out Negative results. This is a virus, a positive can transfer the disease to the negative through sexual intercourse. It is always advisable to use protection to reduce the risk of Transmission.
