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General FAQ
What is HIV and how does one contract it?
HIV is short for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV attacks the body's immune system, making it hard to fight off infections. HIV
particularly attacks the white blood cells called CD4 cells, which sets the immune system in motion when infections enter the
body. HIV infects CD4 cells and uses them to make new copies of HIV which go on to infect more cells. The lower a person's CD4
count, the weaker their immune system will be.
How is HIV transmitted?
For someone to become infected, a sufficient amount of HIV must get into their blood. The body fluids which contain enough HIV
to infect someone are blood, semen, vaginal fluids including menstrual blood, and breast milk. Saliva, sweat and urine do not
contain enough virus to infect someone. HIV cannot pass through intact external skin, or through the air like a cold or flu
virus.
Where can I get tested for HIV?
Any GUM (GenitoUrinary Medicine) clinic within the NHS would provide HIV testing. The NHS has a website to help you locate the
nearest GUM clinic at
www.playingsafely.co.uk. Of course, you can always contact CAFPH for a more detailed
list of available testing centres in the Luton/Bedfordshire area.
Can I get a 'at home' testing kit for HIV?
In some countries 'home sampling' test kits are available. With a home sampling kit, a person can take a sample (usually a blood
sample) and then send it off to a laboratory for testing. A few days later, the person phones up a special number, gives their
individual identification code, and is then given the result over the phone. If the result is positive, professional health
specialist will provide emotional support for the person.
For 'home sampling', the major advantages are convenience, speed privacy and anonymity. In the countries that HIV tests are
not free, home sampling may be a cost-effective way to get tested. But for some people the lack of face-to face counselling
before and after the test may be a disadvantage. There is one company in the USA that offers an FDA approved 'home sampling'
test kit for HIV. In the UK, the sale of any type of HIV testing kit for private use is illegal.
Can you treat HIV?
There is no vaccine or cure for HIV. However, anti-HIV drugs are available, and taking a combination of anti-HIV drugs
(combination therapy) can slow down the damaging effect of HIV on the immune system. When combination therapy is successful, it
can improve the health of someone with HIV, making them less likely to develop what used to be called 'AIDS-defining conditions'
and prolonging their life expectancy. In order for the anti-HIV drugs to be most effective a certain level has to be maintained
in the body at all times. However, taking anti-HIV drugs can be complicated. Some people have take a large number of pills every
day with restrictions about when they have to be taken and with dietary instructions which can make it very difficult to stick
to. Some of the treatments have side effects as well.
What is the life expectancy for someone living with HIV?
With anti-retroviral treatments for HIV, the disease has become a manageable illness like diabetes, where a healthy life regime
and regular treatment can enable those living with HIV and AIDS to live a productive and long life.
Is there a telephone number I can call to talk to someone about HIV?
Of course you can speak to us here at CAFPH by calling us on 01582 726 061 or via email at info@cafph.org. Alternatively, the
Terrence Higgins Trust Direct Helpline on 0845 1221 200 or email the THT at
info@tht.org.uk
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