HIV Is Not A Game

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continues to be a dangerous public health issue. Despite strides in antiretroviral treatment, challenges to control the disease remain. HIV awareness and education is the foundation of prevention or ending the epidemic. Youth and young adults, in particular, need this guidance. Only 56% of individuals aged 13-24 are HIV status aware. This group is often misinformed or lacks access to quality resources. Some young adults make assumptions about the disease based on hearsay or outdated information. Separating fact from fiction will help this group make better decisions and become advocates.

Why young adults are at risk

Adolescents and young adults account for 1 in 5 new HIV infections. Underserved groups, like Black and Hispanic individuals, account for over 50% of these new infections. During this exploratory stage of life, young adults are more likely to engage in practices that increase the risk of HIV infection. Misinformation or avoidance can increase the danger among youth. Among adolescents and young adults, there are higher rates of HIV stigma, poor social norms, and gender-based violence. Along with increased vulnerability, especially among young women, youths need support, protection, and guidance to prevent HIV. Helping this group with the basics while dispelling any myths makes youth act from a space of truth.

Fact: Understanding transmission pathways matter

How can someone contract HIV? Youths have limited information about HIV transmission. HIV is transmitted via the bloodstream through broken skin, open sores, or mucous membranes. The most common way to become infected is through sexual contact. Unprotected sex, especially with HIV+ individuals, increases the risk of transmission. HIV transmission rates increase exponentially through anal sex. Men who have sex with men (MSM) and individuals with multiple sexual partners have significantly higher chances of HIV infection. People who inject drugs (PWID) or share needles also have a high risk of infection. Understanding these pathways can help youths stay safe and adopt healthy HIV prevention practices.

Fiction: HIV only affects certain groups

A damaging myth is that HIV only impacts certain groups, such as gay men or poorer communities. As a result, some individuals may feel that HIV awareness and prevention is unnecessary. This myth is untrue and can be dangerous. HIV can affect anyone, regardless of race, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Individuals in poor socioeconomic communities may have higher risks, but this is due to a lack of resources for those who need support. This is no different from someone who has resources but chooses not to use them. Perpetuating these narratives increases the stigma surrounding HIV, preventing vulnerable people from seeking testing and treatment. Youths who do not fit this profile but believe these myths are also at risk due to a lack of protection. Everyone must take HIV seriously, especially if risky sexual or health behaviors are involved.

Fact: Testing is essential to HIV prevention

Effective testing is the only way to confirm if someone has HIV, ensure prompt treatment, and prevent the unintentional spread of the disease. Testing has never been easier with at-home antibody tests available using a finger prick or oral swab. While effective, these tests are not 100% accurate. A follow-up blood test at a doctor or testing center can confirm the disease. Young people should make testing a priority, especially those at risk of contracting the disease. MSM individuals or those in serodiscordant relationships should get tested every 3-6 months. HIV testing has become more accessible, and clinics have ramped up production. Statistics show at least 3.4 million HIV tests performed since 2022, but less than 40% have ever been tested.

Fiction: You can easily tell if someone has HIV

HIV cannot be easily identified by looking at someone. People who appear healthy on the surface may have HIV. Symptoms can take months or even years to develop. HIV treatment has also made significant leaps. Antiretroviral treatment (ART), when taken consistently, can make the virus almost undetectable. Many HIV+ individuals live full lives while maintaining health and appearance. Do not believe someone is safe or unsafe based on looks. Staying informed, regular testing, and treatment are essential to HIV prevention.

Fact: PrEP is a powerful tool to prevent infection

Using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been shown to prevent HIV infection. PrEP is a proactive form of HIV prevention, especially useful for high-risk individuals. By taking daily PrEP or a periodic injection, the body contains the resources needed to prevent the spread of the disease. If someone is at risk, PrEP limits the enzymes that duplicate the HIV virus.
While PreP is effective, with a 99% success rate in some cases, a lack of knowledge is a challenge. Speak with a doctor to confirm if PrEP will be useful.

Fiction: HIV prevention is not your problem

Youth can fall into the trap that HIV awareness and prevention is someone else’s problem. Even if someone is not at risk, taking HIV seriously is recommended. HIV is a collective responsibility. Close friends and family could be at risk or uninformed about staying safe. Sharing information can save a life. Young people must take ownership of early and often. There are individual and collective roles in preventing the epidemic. Staying informed and aware ensures the proper precautions are taken.

Separate real from fake

Young adults need support and resources to stay HIV-free. There are many groups and stakeholders involved in sharing information and testing. At the same time, these groups should learn the facts and myths about the disease. Leaning on myths can be dangerous to individuals and the larger community. While some groups pose a higher risk than others, anyone can get the disease. Stay informed, get tested, and use PrEP where applicable.