HIV, HOW TO STAY SAFE

HIV cases are on the rise in Pakistan and there is no formal education in our schools or colleges to educate our youngsters and tell them how life-threatening HIV and AIDS are. So, read our article till the end to learn about HIV and how to keep yourself safe from this uncurable disease.
 

 
What is HIV?
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It infects and destroys cells of your immune system, making it hard to fight off other diseases. When HIV has severely weakened your immune system, it can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
 

 
How to reduce your risk of getting HIV?
The only and best way to reduce your risk of HIV is to be aware of how it spreads and protect yourself during certain activities. Having sex without a condom and sharing needles to take drugs are the most common ways that spread HIV.
 

 
These are some ways to reduce your risk:
1. Use latex condoms.
 
2. Never share needles to take drugs.
 
3. Get tested and treated for other STDs. Other STDs can put you at higher risk for an HIV infection.
 
4. Avoid getting drunk or high. Intoxicated people might be less likely to protect themselves.
 
5. If you are at high risk of HIV exposure, ask your healthcare provider if you should be taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
 
6. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to see if you should take post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
 
7. Consider getting tested to know if you can pass HIV to others.
 

 
Keep these ways in mind and share this article with your loved ones to keep them safe.