Do you have HIV?
Do you have AIDS?
What makes you so sure you do not have HIV/AIDS?
Have you TESTED yourself?
What if you are Positive for HIV/AIDS?
WHAT IF!!! Your partner has HIV/AIDS but you didn't know?
Scared bo?
HIV is transmitted through:
= Unprotected Sex with an HIV-infected partner, especially when there is a transfer of semen, vaginal fluids or blood.
= Contact with HIV- infected blood through the sharing of needles and other piercing instruments. If you are going to get a TATTOO, a piercing or even ACUPUNCTURE, make sure the instruments are clean and sterile.
= Transfer of fluids when an HIV-infected mother delivers her baby and through breastfeeding. An HIV-infected mother can get medical treatment during her pregnancy to avoid passing the virus to her baby. Therefore it is important for pregnant women to go for HIV testing early.
= Contact with HIV- infected blood through the sharing of needles and other piercing instruments. If you are going to get a TATTOO, a piercing or even ACUPUNCTURE, make sure the instruments are clean and sterile.
= Transfer of fluids when an HIV-infected mother delivers her baby and through breastfeeding. An HIV-infected mother can get medical treatment during her pregnancy to avoid passing the virus to her baby. Therefore it is important for pregnant women to go for HIV testing early.
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This virus attacks the body's immune system which protects a person from germs, bacteria and other viruses. So with a weakened immune system, a person is more likely to fall sick.
AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. It occurs at the LAST Stages of an HIV infection.
Did you know that being diagnosed with HIV doesn't mean you have AIDS?
AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. It occurs at the LAST Stages of an HIV infection.
Did you know that being diagnosed with HIV doesn't mean you have AIDS?
Protect yourself from HIV by:
= Not having sex (which is difficult in most cases)
= Avoid having casual sex
= Be faithful to one partner, and being honest about your sexual history.
Which usually doesn't work either because in a BGR, we can stick to ONE PARTNER but break up several times with different people (BUT STILL FAITHFUL WHAT) so... if both you and your partner are not the FIRST bf/gf to each other, that makes you just as prone to an HIV infection.
So, reduce the number of your sexual partners.
= Use a condom correctly!!!
= Using clean and sterile needles, choosing a reliable service provider when getting a piercing, tattoo, acupuncture or an injection.
You can never tell if someone has HIV based on appearances alone. Anyone healthy, attractive and young can get HIV!!!
= Avoid having casual sex
= Be faithful to one partner, and being honest about your sexual history.
Which usually doesn't work either because in a BGR, we can stick to ONE PARTNER but break up several times with different people (BUT STILL FAITHFUL WHAT) so... if both you and your partner are not the FIRST bf/gf to each other, that makes you just as prone to an HIV infection.
So, reduce the number of your sexual partners.
= Use a condom correctly!!!
= Using clean and sterile needles, choosing a reliable service provider when getting a piercing, tattoo, acupuncture or an injection.
You can never tell if someone has HIV based on appearances alone. Anyone healthy, attractive and young can get HIV!!!
An HIV test is the only way to find out whether you have been infected by HIV. Being aware of your HIV status means you can take steps to prevent your loved ones such as your spouse and children from getting HIV.
"I won't get HIV. I only have one partner."
Its great that you are in a faithful and monogamous relationship. BUT do you know your HIV status or that of your partner's previous sexual partners'? If not, its good to get tested to be sure.
"I don't want to get tested for HIV. I won't have a future after that."
There are many people living with HIV who continue to live happy and healthy lives. There are also support groups whose members can help you cope.
"I might have HIV. But I don't want to know."
Many people in Singapore find out that they have HIV at a very late stage when their immune system has become very weak and the symptoms start appearing - about 10 years after they are infected. If you think that you might have HIV, go for a test. There is treatment available that can help you live a long and healthy life.
"I want to get a test. However I do not want people to know."
There are 7 clinics which provide anonymous HIV testing. No names or personal details will be taken, even if you are tested HIV positive.
Its great that you are in a faithful and monogamous relationship. BUT do you know your HIV status or that of your partner's previous sexual partners'? If not, its good to get tested to be sure.
"I don't want to get tested for HIV. I won't have a future after that."
There are many people living with HIV who continue to live happy and healthy lives. There are also support groups whose members can help you cope.
"I might have HIV. But I don't want to know."
Many people in Singapore find out that they have HIV at a very late stage when their immune system has become very weak and the symptoms start appearing - about 10 years after they are infected. If you think that you might have HIV, go for a test. There is treatment available that can help you live a long and healthy life.
"I want to get a test. However I do not want people to know."
There are 7 clinics which provide anonymous HIV testing. No names or personal details will be taken, even if you are tested HIV positive.
By right, you have to inform your partner of your HIV status. Use a condom la?
Unless of course, you're doing it on purpose...
Unless of course, you're doing it on purpose...
Places to take the anonymous HIV Tests
What happens during anonymous HIV Testing?
Step 1 = Reception
You will be given a number at the registration counter and an anonymous questionnaire to fill up.
Step 2 = Pre-test Counselling
Counselling is done in a private room before the test to help you prepare for the test, and to help you understand your risks better. Feel free to ask the counsellor any questions.
Step 3 = OraQuick or Blood Test
An oral fluid test is used for the test. A swipe is performed in the insides of your mouth using the OraQuick test. You can also choose to take a blood test at the Action for AIDS Anonymous HIV Test Clinic. Only a small prick of blood is taken from your finger. All equipment used are sterilised and disposable and handled by a trained professional.
Step 4 = Result and Post-test Counselling
You will be able to get your results after 20 minutes of painful waiting in a private room. The counsellor will help you understand what further steps you cant take. You may ask any question you like.
Did you know?
If you get a test at an anonymous HIV test clinic, all information and test results are confidential and no names or personal details will be taken, even when tested HIV positive. Your family and company will not be informed of your HIV status. The doctor will advise you on the best course of action to take.
Step 1 = Reception
You will be given a number at the registration counter and an anonymous questionnaire to fill up.
Step 2 = Pre-test Counselling
Counselling is done in a private room before the test to help you prepare for the test, and to help you understand your risks better. Feel free to ask the counsellor any questions.
Step 3 = OraQuick or Blood Test
An oral fluid test is used for the test. A swipe is performed in the insides of your mouth using the OraQuick test. You can also choose to take a blood test at the Action for AIDS Anonymous HIV Test Clinic. Only a small prick of blood is taken from your finger. All equipment used are sterilised and disposable and handled by a trained professional.
Step 4 = Result and Post-test Counselling
You will be able to get your results after 20 minutes of painful waiting in a private room. The counsellor will help you understand what further steps you cant take. You may ask any question you like.
Did you know?
If you get a test at an anonymous HIV test clinic, all information and test results are confidential and no names or personal details will be taken, even when tested HIV positive. Your family and company will not be informed of your HIV status. The doctor will advise you on the best course of action to take.
== FWA Negative leh... So am I not infected?
If the test is done within the window period*, the antibodies for HIV may not have developed sufficiently to be detected yet. Another test would need to be done after 3 months to be sure.
However if you continue to have unprotected sex after the test, you can still get infected with HIV. So, if you are still having unprotected sex, ensure that you test yourself for HIV frequently. OR better still, use a CONDOM every time!!!
*Window Period --> The HIV Test will test for the antibodies that develop in response to the virus. Antibodies develop during this window period, which is from 1 to 3 months after exposure to the virus.
== Si liao la I am POSITIVE for HIV!!! HOWWW???!!!
1) A full blood exam will be conducted to confirm the HIV positive test result.
2) When the doctor receives a positive confirmatory blood test, he or she will advise you to seek medical consultation at the Communicable Disease Centre. There are trained doctors and counsellors who will advise you on the next steps to take.
3) Your family and workplace will not be informed of your HIV Status. If you are married, you are advised to inform your partner that he/she might be exposed to HIV and that he/she should also get the test done.
4) The doctor will conduct some tests to check the level of your immune system. If you still have a healthy immune system, you will be advised to continue to stay strong and healthy by exercising, keeping fit and by thinking positive and staying happy.
5) The doctor will advise if you should start taking medication based on the strength of your immune system. Once you start your medication, make sure you take it regularly so the virus cannot build its resistance. There might be some side effects, which the doctors will advise you on how to manage accordingly.
6) You will be advised to go for regular follow-ups so that the doctor can monitor your health and provide the best course of action.
7) You can continue to lead a relatively healthy life, and contribute effectively to work and society.
If the test is done within the window period*, the antibodies for HIV may not have developed sufficiently to be detected yet. Another test would need to be done after 3 months to be sure.
However if you continue to have unprotected sex after the test, you can still get infected with HIV. So, if you are still having unprotected sex, ensure that you test yourself for HIV frequently. OR better still, use a CONDOM every time!!!
*Window Period --> The HIV Test will test for the antibodies that develop in response to the virus. Antibodies develop during this window period, which is from 1 to 3 months after exposure to the virus.
== Si liao la I am POSITIVE for HIV!!! HOWWW???!!!
1) A full blood exam will be conducted to confirm the HIV positive test result.
2) When the doctor receives a positive confirmatory blood test, he or she will advise you to seek medical consultation at the Communicable Disease Centre. There are trained doctors and counsellors who will advise you on the next steps to take.
3) Your family and workplace will not be informed of your HIV Status. If you are married, you are advised to inform your partner that he/she might be exposed to HIV and that he/she should also get the test done.
4) The doctor will conduct some tests to check the level of your immune system. If you still have a healthy immune system, you will be advised to continue to stay strong and healthy by exercising, keeping fit and by thinking positive and staying happy.
5) The doctor will advise if you should start taking medication based on the strength of your immune system. Once you start your medication, make sure you take it regularly so the virus cannot build its resistance. There might be some side effects, which the doctors will advise you on how to manage accordingly.
6) You will be advised to go for regular follow-ups so that the doctor can monitor your health and provide the best course of action.
7) You can continue to lead a relatively healthy life, and contribute effectively to work and society.
GET TESTED!!!
I have 1 free test to give away.
Find my email on this blog, send me your Name, Contact and Address,
and I will send this to you.
In conjunction with World Aids Day,
for a party on Saturday, December 5 happening from 6 to 10pm at SupperClub Singapore for an exclusive World AIDS Day event of art, music and dance, featuring guest appearances by Jack & Rai and other bands. Of course, there will be snacks and drinks! So join me la! Email me your name, contact and address. =)
I have 5 pairs of tickets to give away
for a party on Saturday, December 5 happening from 6 to 10pm at SupperClub Singapore for an exclusive World AIDS Day event of art, music and dance, featuring guest appearances by Jack & Rai and other bands. Of course, there will be snacks and drinks! So join me la! Email me your name, contact and address. =)
By the way, I am Negative for HIV.
