Understanding HIV Today
HIV is not what it was decades ago. Today there are simple tests, effective treatment, and strong prevention options.
What is HIV?
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that affects the immune system. Without treatment, it can weaken the body’s ability to fight infections over time. With treatment, people with HIV can stay healthy and live long lives.
HIV is passed through certain body fluids, most often through sex without a condom or by sharing needles. It is not spread through hugging, kissing, sharing dishes, or everyday contact.
Testing is the first step
The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested. CDC recommends that everyone ages 13 to 64 get tested at least once, and that people with ongoing risk test more often, such as every 3 to 6 months.
Testing at VURA is confidential. If you think you were exposed recently, tell us, because some tests can’t detect HIV right away. Your provider will explain when to test and when to retest.
Modern treatment works
HIV treatment, called antiretroviral therapy (ART), keeps the virus under control. Many people take one pill a day, and long-acting injectable options are also available for some patients. Starting treatment early and staying on it protects your health.
What U=U means
U=U stands for Undetectable = Untransmittable. When a person with HIV takes treatment as prescribed and keeps an undetectable viral load, they do not transmit HIV to their partners through sex.
U=U applies to sexual transmission. It does not protect against other STIs, so routine STI testing is still important.
Ways to prevent HIV
- PrEP: medication taken before exposure that greatly lowers your risk. Learn about PrEP
- PEP: emergency medication started within 72 hours after a possible exposure. Learn about PEP
- Condoms: help prevent HIV and many other STIs.
- Regular testing: knowing your status and your partners’ status.
- U=U: partners with HIV who stay undetectable do not transmit HIV through sex.
How VURA can help
We offer confidential HIV testing, PrEP and PEP, STI testing and treatment, and medication support. If you test positive, you are not alone: we will help connect you to HIV care and support right away.
Possible HIV exposure in the last 72 hours?
PEP may help prevent HIV, but it must be started quickly. Call us now. If you can’t reach us right away, go to an emergency room or urgent care and ask about PEP.
We’re here to help.
Not ready to fill out a form? That’s completely fine. You can contact our team directly, ask questions, or learn more before deciding what to do next.