Those of us who are living with HIV may look healthy, feel healthy and often do not know we are infected with HIV. In some countries one in every four or five people is living with HIV. It may take many years before they develop AIDS. During those years they can pass on HIV to many others. There are a number of ways to avoid HIV infection:
- Both partners should stay faithful to each other in a sexual relationship.
- If one partner may be infected with HIV, use condoms to stop the other partner becoming infected.
- Avoid situations which encourage sexual temptation.
- Make sure that blood for transfusions is tested for HIV.
- Avoid sharing needles, razors, blades or toothbrushes (because people’s gums may bleed).
- When caring for someone with HIV or AIDS wear gloves or plastic bags on hands when handling blood or body fluids. Soak clothes which are stained with blood or body fluids with bleach before washing. Keep cuts or sores on the hands covered.
Discussion
- How can we make sure this information reaches the people who are most at risk of HIV infection?
- Which of these ways to avoid HIV infection would be the most difficult to put into practice? Why is this? What other messages would we like to share with our communities?
- Are condoms widely available? How much do they cost? How do people feel about using them?
- Many people have little choice about where they work. Many men find work in cities, mines or as truck drivers, which means they may be away from home for a long time. How can they avoid risky behaviour? How can families try to stay together?
- Should young couples agree to be tested for HIV before marriage?
- Are there other ways in which people believe they can become infected by HIV? What are these? Try to find out if they are correct.
- In an emergency situation it may be very difficult to know if blood used in transfusions has been tested. What is the situation in our local hospital? Can anything be done to reduce the risk?
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