Basic Information Everyone Should Know
about HIV and AIDS
Produced by the American Federation of Teachers and its New York City affiliate, the United Federation of Teachers

What is AIDS?

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a serious illness. The virus that causes AIDS attacks the immune system, the body's natural defense against disease. Damage to the immune system leaves the body vulnerable to secondary illnesses that can be fatal. There is still no known cure for AIDS, but effective treatments are now available. Research continues in the hope of developing better treatments and a vaccine.

Why should I learn about AIDS?

You should learn about AIDS because:

• you or someone you care about may be at risk for developing it;

• you or someone you care about may be HIV-positive; or

• your job may involve helping people who have AIDS.

Learning about AIDS can help you understand the facts and reject the myths about the illness. Knowing about AIDS will also help you respond without fear to people who need your help.

What causes AIDS?

AIDS is caused by a virus called HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). A healthy immune system includes special kinds of white bloods cells called B cells and T cells, and depends on a balance of certain kinds of T cells. "Helper" T cells assist B cells in fighting disease. HIV apparently destroys these helper cells and over time, the immune system begins to fail. The body is less able to help itself heal from infections and a host of diseases.

What are the effects of HIV on the body?

HIV may be in the body for many years before there are any signs of illness. As HIV weakens the immune system, signs and symptoms may appear. People may have:

• swollen lymph glands in the neck, underarm and groin area;

• recurrent fever, including "night sweats;"

• rapid weight loss for no apparent reason;

• constant fatigue;

• diarrhea and decreased appetite;

• white spots or unusual blemishes in the mouth; or

• other illnesses.

People infected with HIV can't fight off many serious illnesses without medical treatment. One such illness is Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), usually a rare lung infection. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

Scientific research also shows that HIV can damage the brain and spinal cord. Signs of damage may include memory loss, indifference, inability to make decisions, partial paralysis, loss of coordination and other problems in controlling the body.

How is HIV transmitted?

HIV is mainly spread:

• by unprotected sexual contact with an HIV-infected person;

• by sharing a hypodermic needle with an HIV-infected person; and

• from HIV-infected mothers to their infants before, during and after birth (breast-feeding).

In the early years of the epidemic, HIV was spread through blood products from donations. This is very unlikely now because:

• all donors are carefully screened; and

• all donors' blood and blood products are tested before being used.

Current research shows that HIV is NOT spread by casual contact. For example, it is not spread by nonsexual, everyday contact, such as:

• touching, hugging and shaking hands;

• breathing and coughing; or

• using toilets, telephones, drinking fountains, etc.

Anyone can get infected with HIV.

So far, most cases have occurred among:

• homosexual and bisexual men who contracted HIV through unprotected sexual activity with an infected person;

• heterosexuals who contracted HIV from unprotected sexual activity with an infected person;

• injection-drug users who contracted HIV by sharing needles and drug "works" to inject drugs;

• hemophiliacs who contracted HIV through the use of donated blood and blood products; and

• infants who contracted HIV from an infected mother. Currently, very few babies in America contract the virus from their mothers. This is because so many pregnant women get tested and if HIV is detected, they receive treatment that lowers the risk of infecting their babies.

Remember, anyone can look healthy and still be infected.

Living with HIV

What is HIV?

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is the virus that causes AIDS. People infected with HIV can remain healthy for years. Studies show that certain treatments can help extend and improve life for a person with HIV.

HIV can be spread mainly:

• by having unprotected sex with someone infected with HIV;

• by sharing needles with a person who has HIV to inject drugs, pierce ears or make tattoos; and

• by a mother who has HIV, but is not being treated for it, to her baby―before, during and after birth (through breast feeding).

Current research shows that HIV is not spread through nonsexual, everyday activities, casual contact or through the air.

Should I have the HIV antibody test?

Yes, especially if you think that you may be infected or if you do not know the HIV status of a sexual partner. The sooner you know the results, the sooner you can receive treatment if you are infected. But before you have the test, talk with an AIDS counselor or healthcare provider about:

• the testing procedure and whether the test is "confidential" or "anonymous;" and

• what the results may mean.

A positive test result means that you've been infected with HIV. A positive test result does not mean that you have AIDS or are likely to develop AIDS soon. However, it does mean that you can infect others with HIV and that you should seek treatment and counseling immediately..

A negative test result means that you are probably not infected with HIV. A negative test result does not mean that you are immune to HIV, or that you can't get infected.

Whether you test positive or negative, you may be advised to be tested again to confirm the test results. Ask how often you should be tested.

Discuss your results with a counselor or healthcare provider. Ask questions. Talk about any concerns you may have.

What should I do if my test result is positive?

Give yourself time to work through your feelings. It's OK (and very common) to feel afraid, angry, lonely and depressed. Talk about your feelings with someone you trust. See a doctor, and learn all you can about living with HIV and about treatments. Keep up with the latest news, and talk with knowledgeable people.

Find a support group. There are many people who can help.

Urge your sex partner(s) to get counseling and testing too. This also applies to anyone with whom you have shared needles.

Remember, you are not alone. Turn to your partner, friends, family and the sources of help described in this and other AIDS in America Project documents. Be honest and open with them, and with yourself.

How can I take charge of my life?

Find a physician or clinic experienced in treating people with HIV. Ask friends, relatives or local AIDS organizations for help finding an appropriate provider.

Build a good relationship with your healthcare provider. He or she can provide expert health advice, referrals and support. Bring a list of questions to ask and a notebook, so you can write down the answers.

Check with your health insurance policy. To find out what's covered and what's not, ask for a copy of your policy from your personnel director at work or your insurance agent. It's your right to ask for one.

Get informed about laws that protect workers’ rights and benefits of persons with HIV, including the federal Family and Medical Leave Act, the Americans With Disabilities Act, and any state and local laws that apply.

Have checkups as often as recommended. Get a T-cell count (T-cells are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection), a viral load test and, if recommended, a TB (tuberculosis) test, as well as any shots (vaccinations) you should have. Discuss anti-viral therapy or other treatment with your doctor. Presently, the most effective medical treatments for HIV are called highly active anti-retroviral therapies, known as HAART.

How can I protect myself and others?

Take the issue of sex seriously. Since HIV can be spread through sexual contact, you must explore the options available. Not having sex is the safest option. Abstinence is the only sure way to avoid HIV, other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy. If you do decide to have sex, males should always use a latex condom. Condoms are not foolproof, but when used properly they are highly effective in preventing HIV infection and other STDs. Use a new condom each time you have sex and always follow the directions on the condom package.

Female condoms are also being tested. Check with your healthcare provider to find out about their availability and whether this is an option you should try.

Testing is under way on ointments called microbicides that are used before sexual intercourse to prevent infection. It will be several years before their effectiveness is fully demonstrated but trials are being conducted now in the United States and internationally.

Talk with your partner about HIV. Tell him or her if you're infected and then discuss the options.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, ask you healthcare provider or family planning service for advice.

Avoid sharing personal care items such as razors and toothbrushes. But there is no need to have separate sets of dishes, utensils, etc.

Remember, HIV is NOT spread by casual contact. There's no reason to avoid being around people who are HIV-positive.

Should I tell people that I'm infected?

This decision is a very personal one. It may help to talk with a counselor or a support group. You should tell any people you may have put at risk, so they can take steps to protect themselves and others. Also, tell your dentist and other healthcare providers.

Are there drugs that I should take?

There are several treatment options for HIV infection and related illnesses. Ask your healthcare provider about which ones may be best for you. As with any drug, talk about the risks, benefits and cost with your healthcare provider.

What are the signs of HIV infection?

For many people infected with HIV, there are no visible signs. Signs may take many years to appear. To be safe, see your healthcare provider if any of the following symptoms last more than a week:

• swollen glands

• night sweats

• unexplained weight loss

• diarrhea

• constant tiredness

• white spots or unusual marks in your mouth

• coughing

• mental impairment/confusion

• visual/hearing problems

Sources for help, support and information:

• healthcare providers, hospitals and health clinics that regularly help people with HIV

• support groups for people with HIV or AIDS

• AIDS organizations

• local and state health departments

• mental health providers

• members of the clergy

For legal and/or insurance information:

• legal offices of AIDS organizations

• legal aid offices

• your state's department of insurance

• insurance agents

• lawyers

Return to main topic page: HIV & AIDS in America