Disclaimer [ENGLISH]
Disclaimer: This material is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, nor does it replace the advice or counsel of a doctor or health care professional. Reference to a specific commercial product or service does not imply endorsement or recommendation of that product or service by CPCMG.
What is HIV?
- HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency virus
- H - Only humans can get this virus.
- I - Immunodeficiency -The HIV virus weakens your immune system by destroying
important cells in your body that help you tfight infection. If your immune system is
damaged by the HIV virus, you are more likely tbecome seriously ill with infections. - V – Virus A virus is a microscopic organism that causes illness in humans. A microscopic
organism is ssmall that it cannot be seen without special equipment
What happens if a person is infected with HIV?
- Right now, there is no cure for HIV.
- There is treatment for HIV infection, but it must be taken for the rest of your life.
- One option is a daily pill.
- Another option is an injection that is given every other month.
How do you get infected with the HIV virus?
- You can get or pass HIV only through specific activities.
- Most people get or transmit HIV through having anal or vaginal sex without using a
protective condom. - You can also get HIV if you use a contaminated needle or syringe for intravenous drug
use.
- Most people get or transmit HIV through having anal or vaginal sex without using a
Can you prevent HIV infection?
- Yes, using a new daily medication reduces your risk of getting HIV. PREP (Pre exposure Prophylaxis)
- Descovy is the preferred option for teens.
- Descovy dose is one tablet taken once daily with or without food.
- You must test negative for HIV prior to starting and then again, every 3 months.
- Labs need to be done before starting the medication and again every 6 months.
- You will need to get bloodwork and have your urine tested.
What should I do if I have been exposed to HIV?
National Resources:
- Call PEP (post exposure prophylaxis)
- National Pep Line 1-888-448-4911
- Visit any emergency room to get started on preventive medication right away.
Local Resources:
- UCSD Center for Gender Health: 1-619-371-6949
- The Center http://thecentersd.org
Scan this QR code or text +1 619-500-7043 to start a conversation with a local PREP expert.
Article written by LGBTQ task force at CPCMG in 2023. Information was reviewed by UCSD HIV.
Edited by TT, DO 06/202