Treatment for HIV has progressed significantly since the 1980s. People living with HIV today can go on to live long and healthy lives with the treatment available.
Despite this breakthrough, there is still a lot of stigma and misinformation about HIV. Below we address some of the common misconceptions.
Are HIV and AIDS the same thing?
No, but they are related. The HIV virus, (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks a person’s immune system which leaves them vulnerable to attacks from other infections.
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is not a condition or disease, but the point at which the immune system can no longer cope. It’s at this point that more serious illnesses can develop as a result.
People cannot develop AIDS without first contracting HIV, but the good news is that nowadays you can access medication to stop HIV developing into more serious symptoms – that could eventually lead to AIDS.
Does HIV only affect gay men?
No, anyone can be diagnosed with HIV. In the UK, it affects lots of different communities. In particular, men who have sex with men and black African people are disproportionately affected. Around one third of those living with HIV in the UK are women, and if we look globally, 44% of those affected in 2023 were women and girls.
Can HIV be transmitted easily through everyday social contact?
No, HIV is not easily passed from one person to another. To get HIV, fluids (such as blood, semen and fluids from the vagina) would have to get into your blood. HIV is not passed on through spitting, kissing, sharing baths, using the same toilet or sharing cutlery. The NHS provides further information about transmission.
Is it easy to tell if you have HIV?
No, the best way to check is to get tested. Most people experience flu-like symptoms 2-6 weeks after infection. After that, HIV may not cause any further symptoms for several years. As these symptoms could be mistaken for many other conditions, it’s important to get tested if you think you’ve been at risk of getting a HIV infection.
Do people with HIV pass on their infection every time they have sex?
No, if a condom is used correctly there is hardly any risk of HIV being passed on. It is worth highlighting that most people taking daily anti-HIV drugs reach an undetectable viral load within 6 months of starting treatment. According to Terrence Higgins Trust, medical evidence has shown that people on effective HIV treatment can’t pass HIV on.
Further support
Terrance Higgins Trust – HIV and AIDS charity.
National AIDS Trust – HIV rights charity.
NHS – Information covering treatment and symptoms.
Ref: WPW0213 this information was reviewed November 2024.
