Today is World AIDS Day. Originating in 1988, World AIDS Day is observed every December 1st. The day is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic.
Ways in which you can be infected with HIV:
* Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person Sexual intercourse without a condom is risky, because the virus, which is present in an infected person's sexual fluids, can pass directly into the body of their partner. This is true for unprotected vaginal and anal sex. Oral sex carries a lower risk, but again HIV transmission can occur here if a condom is not used - for example, if one partner has bleeding gums or an open cut, however small, in their mouth.
* Contact with an infected person's blood If sufficient blood from an infected person enters someone else's body then it can pass on the virus.
* From mother to child HIV can be transmitted from an infected woman to her baby during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding. There are special drugs that can greatly reduce the chances of this happening, but they are unavailable in much of the developing world.
* Use of infected blood products Many people in the past have been infected with HIV by the use of blood transfusions and blood products which were contaminated with the virus - in hospitals, for example. In much of the world this is no longer a significant risk, as blood donations are routinely tested.
* Injecting drugs People who use injected drugs are also vulnerable to HIV infection. In many parts of the world, often because it is illegal to possess them, injecting equipment or works are shared. A tiny amount of blood can transmit HIV, and can be injected directly into the bloodstream with the drugs.
The previous information on HIV/AIDS was provided by Avert.org.
How can you contribute in raising awareness about AIDS?
* Find out facts about HIV and talk to your friends, family and colleagues about HIV- make sure they know the reality, not the myths.
* Know your HIV status: get tested if you have put yourself at risk.
* Talk to all new sexual partners about using condoms. Using a condom during sex is the best way to protect yourself and your partner from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
* If someone tells you they are HIV positive, treat them with respect and don't tell others without their agreement.
* Wear a red ribbon as a symbol of your support for everyone affected by HIV/AIDS and to raise awareness.
The previous information on HIV/AIDS was provided by DoctorNDTV.
For more information, Visit WorldAIDSDay.org.
Have a safe day... and wrap it up!
~Papi Chulo~
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