1. I have just been diagnosed...I am going
to die.
This is the biggest myth of all. In fact
people are living with HIV longer today
than ever before. Meds, treatment
programs, and a better understanding of
HIV allows those infected to live normal,
healthy, productive lives.
2. Why don't we have a vaccine? It should
be easy!
While progress is being made, vaccine
development is not without its challenges
and difficulties. Many experts feel we are
still many many years from an affective
HIV vaccine.
3. HIV can be cured.
While many make claims of miraculous
cures, the sad truth is there is no cure
for HIV. Be careful of claims or cures and
miracles. If it sounds too good to be true
it probably is.
Beware of AIDS fraud.
4. My family doctor can treat my HIV.
The fact is, experts believe that given
the complexities of HIV care, only HIV
specialists should manage your care. Be
sure to choose a doctor who cares for HIV
patients regularly.
5. We don't need a condom for oral sex.
Again, untrue and a very dangerous myth.
Condoms must be used each and every sexual
encounter; vaginal, anal and oral.
6. I have HIV...I can't have children.
This used to be true but not anymore.
Women living with HIV can and do have
families. While certain steps and
precautions have to be taken, women can
now have the families they always dreamed
about.
Women with HIV can start a family.
7. People over 50 don't get HIV.
Don't bet on it. In fact, people over 50
make up a rapidly growing segment of the
HIV population.
8. We both have HIV...we don't need a
condom.
Not true. Experts are seeing more an more
incidences of re-infection, making HIV
treatment even more difficult.
9. HIV only affects gay men and drug
users
In fact, HIV can infect anyone. Babies,
women, seniors over 50, teens, blacks,
whites and Hispanics. At risk behavior can
lead to infection in anyone.
10. HIV is the same as AIDS
In fact this couldn't be further from the
truth. HIV is a virus and AIDS is a
collection of illnesses. Knowing the
difference between the two is a very
important part of understanding both.
I hope this helps in debunking some myths
that still are prevalent today.
Peace and Love and good health,
HomerX
