HIV & AIDS Myths Busted: The Truth You Need to Know

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1 December is World AIDS Day. It is a day to empower ourselves with the facts about HIV, raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support those living with the condition. HIV/AIDS is still considered a taboo topic, which allows misinformation to spread easily.

Let us use this day to separate myths from facts so we can understand the truth and learn how to protect not only ourselves but also our loved ones.

HIV and AIDS are the same

MythFact

Myth

HIV and AIDS refer to the same condition.

Fact

HIV is the virus, while AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. Many people with HIV never reach the AIDS stage with early detection and proper treatment.

HIV can be transmitted through casual contact like hugging or sharing utensils

MythFact

Myth

HIV spreads through everyday contact.

Fact

HIV cannot be passed through normal social interactions. It spreads only through certain body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk, so touching, hugging, or sharing utensils is completely safe.

Only certain groups of people can get HIV

MythFact

Myth

HIV only affects homosexual, sex workers, or drug users.

Fact

Anyone can contract HIV if they are exposed to the virus. It depends on behaviour and exposure, not identity, background, or sexuality.

You can tell if someone has HIV by looking at them

MythFact

Myth

HIV is visible through appearance or behaviour.

Fact

You cannot identify HIV based on how someone looks. Many people with HIV appear completely healthy, hence, a proper test is the only way to know.

AIDS happens suddenly

MythFact

Myth

AIDS appears out of nowhere.

Fact

AIDS does not happen overnight. It develops after years of untreated HIV, when the immune system becomes very weak.

People with AIDS cannot have normal relationships or families

MythFact

Myth

AIDS stops people from having partners or children.

Fact

People with AIDS can have healthy relationships, marry, and even have HIV-free children with proper treatment and medical guidance.

Once you have AIDS, there’s no hope

MythFact

Myth

AIDS is a death sentence.

Fact

Antiretroviral therapy can improve health, extend life, and reduce the risk of complications even at the AIDS stage. Early treatment still makes a big difference.

Knowledge is the foundation of prevention. By learning the facts about HIV and AIDS, we empower ourselves to protect our own health and support those around us. HIV does not discriminate, and neither should we. Everyone has their own story, and it is not our place to judge. Sharing accurate information helps break down fear and stigma, encourages people to get tested, seek treatment early, and ultimately reduces the spread of HIV. Together, through understanding, compassion, and responsible action, we can create a safer, healthier, and more informed community.

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HIV & AIDS Myths Busted: The Truth You Need to Know

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