You Are Not Exempt From HIV Infection

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) rates have decreased over the years. Statistics show that over 30,000 Americans get infected yearly, with many unaware that the infection exists. Some states still have high infection rates for a myriad of reasons. There have been strides in medicine to prevent and treat HIV. However, this does not exempt high-risk groups from contracting the disease. At the same time, all adults, young and old, have a responsibility to stay safe and take precautions. Equipping oneself with knowledge via HIV testing, positive behaviors, medication, and support helps with a healthy, enriched life.

Are you part of the high-risk crowd?

Some adults have a higher chance of contracting HIV than others. HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact or the high-risk use of needles. People who have multiple sexual partners or engage in unprotected sex in a non-monogamous relationship are at a higher risk of contracting HIV. Men who have sex with men (MSM) or individuals who do not use condoms are more likely to experience sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. People who inject drugs (PWID) can share needles, significantly increasing the risk. Young people are likely to explore and experiment in these areas and should be aware of the dangers.

Should everyone consider HIV testing?

Testing is not limited to high-risk groups. Everyone should consider HIV testing at least once yearly. Even those in committed monogamous relationships or individuals who use protection like condoms should get tested. HIV testing reinforces the importance of staying protected and knowing one’s HIV status. Low-risk groups can reduce the stigma, share valuable information with others, and contribute to ending the epidemic. More importantly, some individuals may not notice symptoms if HIV does exist, so testing allows prompt medication and support, which lowers the viral load. Doctors recommend yearly testing for those with a low risk and multiple yearly tests for anyone engaging in risky behavior.

Common testing scenarios

Even if someone is not part of a high-risk group, there are scenarios where testing is encouraged. Doctors recommend a test during a routine medical check or annual wellness visit. HIV testing during pregnancy, before new relationships, or marriage is also recommended. If there was potential exposure, consider a rapid test just to be sure. Testing can feel like a challenge as there are privacy concerns, fear, anxiety, and even cultural barriers around HIV. For instance, some families do not like to discuss HIV and sex. However, testing is the best way for low and high-risk groups to remain safe as long as possible.

Take HIV testing seriously

Testing is one of the best ways to reduce the spread of HIV and even end the epidemic. HIV figures have decreased over the years due to testing and medication. However, there is still much work to do. Both low and high-risk groups should take testing seriously. Lower-risk individuals should get tested at least once yearly to keep protection top of mind. If the individual is moving into a high-risk territory, the chances of using protection or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication increase significantly. Everyone must work together to stay healthy and fight HIV.