Frequently Asked Questions

What do HIV and AIDS stand for?
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is the virus that attacks the body's immune system and over time, people become less able to fight off illness and diseases. AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome; AIDS is the last stage of HIV disease. Doctors make an AIDS diagnosis based on a set of symptoms and conditions identified by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

How is HIV transmitted?
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus or HIV is spread by direct contact with infected body fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. This means that the HIV contained in one of these body fluids must get into the bloodstream by direct entry into a vein, a break in the skin, or through the mucous linings (such as the eyes, mouth, nose, vagina, rectum or penis). Other body fluids such as urine, saliva, vomit, etc. do not pose a risk unless visible blood is present. (See Risk Reduction below)

How can I reduce my risk of getting HIV?
There are many ways to reduce your risk of contracting HIV. The basic rules dictate that you avoid swapping bodily fluids; blood, secretions (anal and vaginal), and semen. You should also avoid behaviors that make you more prone to take risks such as drug and alcohol use (especially using needles).

Should I get tested?
Everyone has an HIV status, but not everyone knows what it is. There are many options available for those living with HIV and the sooner you know your status, the more options you'll have open to you. If you or your partner have been at risk, we encourage you to consider testing.

How soon can I get tested?
You can get an accurate test reading as soon as 4 weeks after exposure, but it may take as long as 3 months after each risk exposure to know for sure if you do or don’t have HIV. For some people, regular testing is part of their routine sexual health care.

What is the difference between an anonymous and confidential HIV test?
Anonymous HIV testing is provided free of charge by the NYS Department of Health, NYC Department of Health, and by some county health departments. At anonymous test sites, it is not necessary to use a name or other identifying information. People are given a code number that they use to get the test results when they return. Anonymous testing is NOT recorded in a person's medical record and may NOT be used for attaining HIV-related treatment and services. People who test positive at one of the NYS's anonymous test sites can change their test results to a confidential one so that they can access HIV-related medical care and support services without waiting for a second test.

How do I know whether or not I've already been tested for HIV?
If you don't know, chances are you have NOT been tested. You need to give specific consent to be tested for HIV in New York State. The only exceptions to this rule in NYS are: federal prison inmates,individuals indicted and/or convicted of sexual assault (special circumstances may apply), people entering the military or Peace Corps, newborn babies, and mothers presenting in labor and delivery without an HIV test on record.

What can those with HIV do to stay healthy?
People who are HIV-positive can live healthy, productive lives for many years. A person infected with HIV can do many things to stay healthy longer:

  • Exercise regulary to stay strong and fit.
  • Make sure you have a doctor who knows how to treat HIV, and follow your doctor's instructions. Keep your appointments even if you feel fine.
  • Be an active partner in your health care, ask questions about anything you don’t understand.
  • Take the medications exactly as your doctor or other health care provider tells you to take them. If you get sick from your medications, call your doctor for advice rather than relying on the advice of your friends or family members.
  • Don't smoke cigarettes or use drugs and/or alcohol. Your body can fight the virus more effectively if you stop smoking, using drugs and/or alcohol. Seek help if you can't stop on your own.
  • Get enough sleep and rest.
  • Eat a balanced diet and seek nutritional assessments from a registered dietician who specializes in HIV.
  • Learn stress-management techniques. Many people find it easier to cope with the chronic stress of living with HIV/AIDS if they have a good social support network and/or engage in prayer or meditation.
  • Women should get a Pap test once a year. Women infected with HIV are more likely to have an abnormal Pap test than women who do not have HIV.
  • Talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.

Is there a cure for HIV/AIDS?
No. There is NO CURE OR VACCINE for HIV infection or AIDS. Research scientists in the US and other countries are actively working toward the development of a cure. To date, no one has ever been able to cure any virus known to mankind, however, there are medications to help treat HIV.