10 AIDS Myths Debunked

Myths and Facts on AIDS 

It is also the reason why it becomes fatal sometimes. There are many misconceptions and misunderstandings about AIDS; let’s look at the top ten myths about AIDS.

#1 Myth- HIV and AIDS are the same.

The fact is that HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. Although HIV can cause AIDS, not all HIV-infected people will develop AIDS disease. When HIV infection is present in the body, the immune system becomes so weak that it may lead to AIDS.

#2 Myth- If HIV is present, you will die soon.

The fact is that earlier in the 1980s, the deaths due to AIDS were very high. But, with ART (Antiretroviral therapy), HIV does not lead to AIDS. Hence, HIV is not fatal all the time.

#3 Myth- HIV infection happens only through risky or unprotected sexual behaviour.

The fact is, AIDS is not an outcome only due to unprotected sex. There are several other reasons that will lead to AIDS, like using needles and syringes that were used by individuals infected with HIV on a healthy person, a mother to her child during childbirth.

#4 Myth- You can contract HIV through kissing, hugging, sharing cups, sharing toilets, and mosquito bites.

The fact is, HIV causes infection only after it enters the human body. It cannot be transmitted by air, water, etc. HIV cannot survive for long periods outside the human body. Hence the spread cannot be through kissing, hugging, sharing toilets etc. 

#5 Myth- HIV can be treated with traditional medicine and by having sex with virgins.

The fact is, there is no scientific evidence, and such ideas are dangerous. There is no life-saving therapy except ART therapy.

#6 Myth- People in monogamous relationships can also get AIDS.

The fact is, sex with an uninfected partner in a single lifelong, mutually monogamous relationship may be a safe circumstance. It is unlikely that this will happen to many people.

#7 Myth- An HIV vaccine already exists.

The fact is, there is no such thing as an HIV vaccine. But scientists are doing better daily research to get closer to making this a reality.

#8 Myth- HIV/AIDS was created.

The fact is that there is no specific evidence that HIV and AIDS were invented in the laboratory. There is also no proof that it is linked to government conspiracies.

#9 Myth- It is not AIDS that kills people, but the medicines they take. 

The fact is, since the introduction of ART (antiretroviral therapy), AIDS patients’ life expectancy has increased. 

#10 Myth- People who have HIV or AIDS appear sick.

The fact is, most people who are affected by HIV do not even know they are affected or carry the virus.

Conclusion:

Being informed is the best way to be. Facts and information should always be clear so that there is no scope of loss of anything and facing difficulties. Seeking proper medical help will always be wise in case of doubt.  

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Disclaimer – Truemeds’ sole intention is to ensure that customers have access to information which is accurate & trustworthy. However, the information here should not be used directly and it cannot act as a substitute for the advice of a doctor. The information provided is only to stay informed. The information on side effects, drug interactions or warnings, and alerts are not exhaustive. Please consult your doctor for the right advice on diseases & medication information.

References 

• https://learn.tearfund.org/en/resources/footsteps/footsteps-91-100/footsteps-98/hiv-myths-and-realities 
• https://www.hvtn.org/hiv-study-basics/hiv-vaccine-myths-and-facts.html
• https://www.thewellproject.org/hiv-information/myths-about-hiv