What is HIV?
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a blood-borne virus (BBV) that may be passed sexually via body fluids (such as blood, semen, vaginal fluid and anal fluid). HIV attacks the immune system, which makes it difficult for the body to fight infections. HIV is not the same as AIDS. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), however with highly effective treatments available, AIDS is now extremely uncommon in Australia. HIV cannot be passed on by people living with HIV (PLHIV) who are on treatment and have an undetectable viral load (UVL).
How do I know if I have HIV?
Many people with HIV will have no obvious symptoms, and many of the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Symptoms may include:
- a flu-like illness a few weeks after exposure
- fatigue and weight loss
- skin infections
- chest infections
A blood test is needed to diagnose HIV (this is called a HIV antibody test), and there is a short period of time between exposure to HIV and the ability for tests to detect HIV or its antibodies. This is called the window period and is generally six weeks after infection, although can be between 2 and 12 weeks after infection.
How can I get HIV?
HIV is passed on by:
- vaginal or anal sex without a condom
- sharing drug injection equipment or needle stick injuries
- pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding if the mother has untreated HIV
HIV has never been reported as being passed on by kissing, shaking hands or social contact, sharing cutlery, cups or glasses, toilet seats or mosquitoes.
What is the treatment for HIV?
There are very effective treatments available for HIV which stop the virus from multiplying (making copies of itself).
These treatments do not cure HIV infection but support people with HIV to live a healthy life.
Do sexual partners need treatment?
All sexual partners should be tested for HIV.
What else should I know?
- There are many ways to prevent HIV, including condoms, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis).
- PEP is available from public hospital emergency departments or sexual health clinics if you may have been exposed to HIV within the last 72 hours.
- PrEP is now available from your local doctor or sexual health clinic.
- Evidence shows that if your partner has HIV and has an undetectable viral load, there is no risk of transmission. Undetectable = Untransmissible (U=U).