We have reached out to several experts to know their opinions on the most common misconceptions and questions related to HIV/AIDS. Over the years, mistaken ideas about HIV and AIDS have brought on behaviors that increases the risks for people to contract the virus. Here below, we have shared the most frequently asked questions with the answers:
Q: Is there a risk of infection in daily contact with AIDS patients?
A: Once HIV leaves the human body, its ability to survive the external environment is relatively low. HIV will not spread by coughing, sneezing, mosquito bites, and daily contact (e.g., handshaking and hugging). People will not be infected by the virus while in public facilities or touching objects.
HIV can be transmitted under the following situations:
• Unprotected anal or vaginal sex
• By a mother to her baby during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding
• Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment
Other rare occasions of transmission may include:
• Oral sex
• Blood transfusions
• Biting and deep mouth kissing
• Female to female intercourse
• Unsterilized needles for tattoos or body piercing
Q: What is the window period for HIV testing?
A: The window period of HIV testing refers to the period from HIV infection to the time before the antibody, antigen, or nucleic acid markers in human serum can be detected.
For example, the commonly used HIV antibody test window period is 3-12 weeks. Thus, it is suggested to be tested twice; the first time after three weeks and a second instance after 12 weeks. If the test is positive, another HIV test should be performed as soon as possible.
However, failure of detection during window period does not imply that the virus cannot be transmitted to others. During the initial state of infection, the virus multiplies rapidly and has high infectivity. Appropriate protective measures benefit HIV prevention and control.
Q: After "unsafe sex," I have been taking medications. Will I be ok?
A: Some medicines prevent being infected with HIV, such as PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis). However, these medications merely reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by roughly 99% and injection drug use by at least 74%. Thus, it is rather advisable to take necessary preventions.
