How to Protect Yourself from HIV and Detect It Timely
Every year, on the third Sunday of May, the world observes the International Day of Remembrance of AIDS Victims. This year it fell on May 19. Despite the annual reduction in HIV mortality, the statistics of incidence remains dynamic. Moreover, not all countries provide treatment for HIV-positive individuals. There are approximately 40 million people worldwide living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Transmission Routes
HIV can be transmitted through three main routes: unprotected sex, through blood (such as injection drug use), and vertically from mother to child during breastfeeding. Daria Gorstkina, the director of the “AIDS.Center” foundation, noted in an interview with the “Parliamentary Newspaper” that in 72% of cases, infection occurs through unprotected heterosexual intercourse.
However, it is impossible to contract the virus through everyday contact. Although many people still believe that HIV can be transmitted through kisses or handshakes. Living together or simply communicating with an HIV-positive person is safe; sharing utensils or even using toothbrushes together poses no risk.
“This fear grew when there was no therapy yet, and the transmission routes of the virus were not well understood. Today, these myths lead to the discrimination of people with HIV—violating their rights and leading to social isolation,” explained the doctor.
Diagnosis
In Russia, HIV diagnostic standards were adopted back in 2006-2007. Initially, antibodies to HIV are detected using the ELISA method, which yields a result with 99.5% accuracy. There are cases of false-positive tests, for example, if the patient has recently been vaccinated or has liver diseases. The result is then rechecked using an immune blotting method, which is the most sensitive to HIV.
To completely rule out an error, the patient is referred to a doctor. Only a medical professional can make a diagnosis. Even if both test results are positive, blood is drawn again in the hospital for reconfirmation.
There are also cases of false-negative test results. This can happen if a person takes the tests before their body has produced antibodies to the virus. Patients are recommended to undergo a new examination within 1-3 months if the doctor has doubts.
Treatment
It is recommended to take an HIV test annually. Doctors also advise getting tested if you have recently used needles for tattoos or piercings, had contact with infected blood, or engaged in unprotected sex. Referrals for HIV testing are also issued upon detection of other sexually transmitted infections. However, it is important to note that the test should not be taken earlier than 3-4 weeks after possible infection. It is during this period that antibodies to the virus will begin to appear in the blood.
Tests can be taken free of charge at any state medical facility, at HIV service NGOs, and at dermatovenerological dispensaries.
Gorstkina mentioned that 30-40 years ago, infected individuals often lived until the AIDS stage, after which they died. But now the situation has changed. Therapy has made HIV a manageable condition that one can live with until old age. In Russia, this treatment is free. It is provided to individuals after they register with state AIDS centers.
Skipping medication intake is not advisable. Otherwise, the disease will progress to the final stage. Typically, the path from HIV to AIDS takes 10 to 15 years. It is essential to seek medical attention and start treatment promptly because as the virus progresses, it destroys the immune system, leaving the individual vulnerable to various infections.
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