What is HIV/AIDS?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that causes HIV infection.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection.
HIV attacks the infection-fighting cells of the immune system. The destruction of these cells makes it difficult for your body to protect against infections and certain cancers.
Without approved medical treatment, HIV can gradually destroy your immune system and progress to AIDS.
How is HIV Spread?
HIV is spread only in certain body fluids from a person with HIV who has a detectable viral load (enough virus in the blood that a test can identify it).
A person with HIV cannot sexually transmit HIV if they have an undetectable viral load (an extremely low amount of virus in the blood as a result of treatment).
Body fluids that can spread HIV
- Blood
- Breast milk
- Fluids: semen, pre-seminal, vaginal & rectal
How HIV Spreads in the U.S.
- Having anal or vaginal sex without condoms
- If HIV negative, not taking medicine to potentially prevent HIV
- If HIV positive, sharing injection drug equipment (e.g., needles) with someone who is HIV positive
If this is you or someone you love, we are here for you!
We Provide
HIV Testing
Information and Education
Links to Support Services
PrEP
Is PrEP Right For Me?
If you are HIV negative, taking PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis) may be a great option for you.
PrEP is a daily pill that reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex up to 99%. Among people who inject drugs, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV by at least 74% when used as prescribed.
PrEP can be taken within 72 hours after a possible exposure to HIV, hopefully to prevent infection. Ask us about PrEP if you think you’ve been exposed to HIV during sex, or a sexual assault, or from sharing needles, or working to prepare drugs.
HIV Testing
Knowing your HIV status through early and routine testing brings peace of mind. It helps you and your partner stay healthy together and strengthens our shared effort to stop the spread of HIV.
HIV Prevention
HIV can be prevented with safer sex practices, condoms, not sharing needles, and medications like PrEP, PEP, and HIV treatment that help you stay undetectable.
HIV Treatment
Starting HIV treatment promptly and staying on it is essential for long-term health. It helps people reach undetectable virus levels and greatly reduces the risk of transmitting HIV.
HIV Stigma
Everyone has a role in stopping HIV stigma by talking openly, using respectful language, and supporting people living with HIV to lead healthy lives.
Want to Learn More?
Simply contact the 1st Choice Healthcare clinic closest to you to click below to learn more!