Understanding and Preventing AIDS


Table of Contents

Introduction


A Virus – The Invader

Mutations and HIV

HIV Strains


Humans – The Host

The T-Cell

Antibodies

T-Cell Function and HIV

Antibodies VS. AIDS

Other Sites of Infection


Types of HIV Infections (AIDS)

Healthy Carrier State (The Latency Period)

Lymphadenopathy Syndrome (LAS)

AIDS-Related Complex (ARC)

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)


Catching AIDS

The Mechanics of Transmission

Where the Virus is Found in Humans

Blood

Semen

Vaginal and Cervical Secretions

Urine and Feces

Mother’s Milk

Saliva

Tears

HIV Survival Outside the Host

Possible Methods of Transmitting HIV

Anal Intercourse

Vaginal Intercourse

Oral Sex

Kissing

Lesbian Sex

Urination

Blood Transfusions

Household and Medical Instruments

Pregnancy

Organ Transplants

Artificial Insemination

Infected Health Care Workers

Blood Spills/Contact with Bodily Secretions and Feces

Blood-Letting Instruments

Biting

Spitting

No HIV Transmission Found

Casual Contact

Sweat

Insects


Preventing AIDS

Sexual Hygiene

Physical Barriers

Condoms

Diaphragms

Contraceptive Jellies and Spermicides

Dams

Latex Gloves

When to Stop Using Barriers

Behavioral Barriers to HIV Infection

Abstinence

Sex Education

Overcoming Reluctance to Use Condoms

Number of Lifetime Sex Partners

Drug Use

Negotiating Limits

Other Concerns

IV Needle Prevention

Blood Spills & Spills of Bodily Waste

Exposure to Human Skin

Blood Transfusions

Soaps and Detergents Which Kill HIV

Dishes

Bathrooms


Detecting AIDS

Initial Symptoms

Acute Reaction

Oral and Facial Signs

Blood Tests

Accuracy

What a Positive Blood Test Means

How to Get Tested

Confidentiality


The Hope for a Vaccine