Prevention of HIV is not simply about adhering to some rules. It means a lot more. It is about who you are, what your beliefs are, and when you should take the right steps to protect yourself and your partner from the infection. It calls for a holistic, informed approach to understand the disease and the infection. It is the only way to prevent it. HIV awareness is very important if you want to prevent the infection spreading from one partner to the other.
According to an article published on https://www.huffpost.com, in America, people infected with the disease should take antiretroviral therapy every day to become healthier and help to reduce the number of new infections to drop significantly in the country. Read on to learn more about some of the ways you can prevent HIV infection.
Take antiretroviral pill
Taking one antiretroviral pill daily is an effective prevention strategy to minimize the possibilities of being infected significantly. It is an evidence-oriented approach and considered an essential part of a total prevention plan and a way to minimize the rates of HIV infection, especially for high-risk populations. Consult with your doctor about an antiretroviral pill to determine whether it is the correct prevention method for you or not. These little things matter and awareness about the disease to stay protected.
Use condoms when having sex
It does not make sense if you feel shy when buying condoms. It is still the most trusted way of preventing HIV infection, pregnancy, as well as other sexually transmitted conditions, especially STDs.
Preventing STDs is imperative, as they can often lead to HIV infection from the vagina or the male penis and fluid secretions. Therefore, never hesitate to use condoms with your partner. It is more important if you have multiple sex partners. Additionally, you can go for HIV examination and opt for PCR test kits because these tests are used to identify HIV’s genetic material, which is RNA. It helps in detecting very early infections.
No sharing needles at any cost
Did you know that the rate of infection is very high among injecting drug users? Studies show that at least 20 percent-40 percent of people are infected due to shared needles. It is not only the people who share needles are at risk but also their partners who are unaware of the fact.
There are many government-sponsored needle programs or NEPs in American states to address this problem in a better way. It helps in raising awareness about preventing HIV infections and other blood-borne ailments.
Prevent mother to baby transmission
The prevention strategy includes all phases of pregnancy, from antenatal to postnatal care. The best way to prevent the mother to baby transmission is through early involvement. It is true that you can prevent the infection during delivery but it is better if you begin the treatment when your pregnancy is confirmed by your gynecologist or earlier.
With the right prenatal care, the use of antiretroviral treatment for mother and baby, the transmission risks are less than two percent now.
Conclusion
HIV-infected people should seek the right tests, treatment, and medication to stay healthy. Use antiretroviral therapy toreduce the chances of infection to a considerable extent.