HIV: DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE RISK!

Thursday, 13 de February de 2020 - 14:33

Screening and early diagnosis are important factors in reversing HIV numbers. The sooner you are diagnosed, the sooner you can start treatment, prevent transmission of the virus and the development of the disease.

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The only way to know if you are infected is to get tested for HIV. The screening test is the most common one and consists of looking for HIV antibodies in the blood. Anyone can get tested and testing is even more important for people who have had risk behaviours, such as unprotected sex (without a condom), sharing syringes or other infected material.

Currently, two types of tests are available in pharmacies: the quick test, performed by a pharmacist, and the self-test, performed by the person himself. The quick test is done anonymously and in a closed cabinet, giving the person all the necessary privacy. The self-test can be done anywhere as long as the necessary conditions are guaranteed and the instructions for use are followed.  

Although there is no cure, there are drugs that help stop the virus from multiplying. In this way, with the inhibition of HIV reproduction, the immune system recovers, allowing infected people to live longer and healthier lives.

 

Find out about HIV-related facts in Portugal in your H magazine.