SNAP: AIDS - Common Myths

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

AIDS

Common Myths

There are many misunderstandings and misconception about HIV. Check how much you know with our 21 common myths and facts about HIV.

Myth: You can’t have a baby if you or your partner is HIV positive.
If someone with HIV decides to have a child, there are options available to them to enable them to have a baby without infecting their partner and steps that can be taken to ensure their baby is not HIV positive.
Myth: If you get HIV you’ll die soon.
Myth: You can tell by looking at someone if they have HIV.
Myth: It takes months before you can have a test for find out if you are infected with HIV.
Myth: If you have a test you face a long wait to find out the result.
Myth: Only gay men get HIV.
Myth: HIV is no longer a serious issue in the UK.
Myth: I don’t know anyone living with HIV.
Myth: My partner would tell me if they had HIV.
Myth: I don’t need to worry about HIV anymore because there are really good treatments available.
Myth: People with HIV can’t work.
Myth: Lots of people come to the UK to get free treatment for HIV
Myth: Only old people get HIV.
Myth: You can get HIV from someone who spits at you or bites you.
Myth: You can get HIV if you stand on a discarded needle.
Myth: HIV treatment is free to everyone in the UK who needs it.
Myth: It’s very easy for me to catch HIV from someone who is infected.
Myth: All young people learn about HIV and how to protect themselves at school.
Myth: There are no symptoms of HIV
Myth: There is no benefit to getting tested early if you think you have HIV.
Myth: My test results won’t be kept confidential.