HIV/AIDS Information:
Testing, Treatment & Connection to Care

About HIV/AIDS

What Is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and breaks down the body’s immune system over time. The immune system is the internal “defense force” that fights off infections and diseases. When the immune system weakens, it is unable to protect against illnesses, leading to the development of serious, often life-threatening infections and cancers.

HIV Transmission

Most people have few, if any, symptoms for several months, or even several years after contracting HIV. But, once HIV enters into the body, it begins to cause damage to the immune system. Left untreated, those with HIV who have no symptoms are able to pass HIV onto others without knowing it. 

How is HIV Transmitted?

People who have HIV can transmit it to others through exchange of bodily fluids, which include blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. HIV can also be transmitted to infants through breastmilk from an HIV positive parent, though it is not a serious risk for transmission among adults. There are three main ways bodily fluids can enter another person’s body:

  1. Unprotected sexual intercourse (sex without a condom or protective barrier), including anal, vaginal, and oral sex. 

  2. Sharing “works” (needles, syringes, cookers, cottons, and water) when injecting drugs or other substances.

  3. From pregnant person to infant before birth, during birth, or through breastmilk. If you are pregnant and HIV positive, proper medical care can greatly increase the chance of giving birth to an HIV negative baby, so it is extremely important to talk with a healthcare provider. 

How is HIV Not Transmitted?

There is not significant risk of HIV transmission while engaging in intimate activities such as kissing, mutual masturbation, or contact between a person’s skin and semen or vaginal fluids. HIV cannot enter through the skin unless there is a fresh break in the skin such as a cut. There is also no scientific evidence that suggests HIV can be transmitted through saliva, sweat, or tears. 

There is no danger from casual contact with people who have HIV or AIDS, from toilet seats, phones, or water fountains. The virus can also not be transmitted through the air via sneezing or coughing, nor can one get HIV from insect or animal bites.

HIV Testing Resources

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HIV Treatment Resources

There are now a number of HIV treatment drugs available to people living with HIV, but there is still no cure for HIV or AIDS. Modern Anti-Retroviral (ART) drugs can prevent AIDS-related pneumonia and other serious diseases and other medications are available to help the body fight the virus itself. However, many of these drugs may cause unintended and harmful side-effects. It is important to talk with your doctor or call the GMHC Hotline to discuss all available options.

Community Partners

What is AIDS?

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) refers to the condition that develops as a result of untreated HIV infection. An AIDS diagnosis is made if a person with HIV develops one of the serious infections associated with HIV, or if blood tests show that their immune system is badly damaged by HIV. Typically, it will take several years before HIV breaks down a person’s immune system and causes AIDS.