HIV/AIDS: top five facts
HIV and AIDS – it’s the scariest of all STDs. The virus damages your immune system so badly that eventually the body isn’t able to fight other infections. And you die. But there are ways to protect yourself and others.
HIV or AIDS- what’s in the name?
HIV is the name of the virus that causes the disease AIDS. It stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, and AIDS stands for Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome. You only develop AIDS in the last stages of an HIV infection. This may take several years.
AIDS was formerly known as GRID, or Gay Related Immuno-Deficiency, but it has been long since discovered that it can affect anyone, and not just gay people. People who are infected by the virus are called HIV-positive or seropositive. They may look perfectly healthy. It’s only in the last stages of AIDS that people may look very sick.
How can I protect myself from it?
The HIV virus is passed on through blood and other bodily fluids. You can get it by having any type of sex without a condom with someone who is infected. Those having anal or vaginal sex are especially at risk, because there is a higher chance of small tears that can bleed. So to protect yourself (or others, if you are HIV positive), use condoms at all times when having sex and know your status!
There are also ways you can get the virus that aren’t through sex. Drug users sharing needles are at risk. Also, pregnant women or mothers who are breastfeeding can pass on the virus to their babies. But you can’t get infected from kissing (at least, the chances are incredibly tiny), mosquitos bites, sharing a meal with someone, toilet seats, shaking hands or a curse.Read Also: HIV causes, symptoms, testing, & treatment
Testing and treatment
If you are afraid that you might have been exposed to the virus, you should get tested. Many countries have free Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) facilities, but any GP, hospital or health clinic you trust should be able to assist you. Or use Love Matters Kenya’s clinic finder found in the top righthand corner of our website. Keep in mind that it may take up to three months to have a reaction showing in your blood.
Even though AIDS is incurable, there are medications you can take called antiretroviral drugs that allow patients to lead a longer life in better health and with less suffering. You may also need to take the meds if you may have been exposed to the virus recently, for example, if a condom breaks. This is called Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). You may be able to avoid infection. Depending on where you live, the availability of the meds may be an issue though.Numbers worldwide
Currently, 40 million people worldwide are infected with HIV – over 10 million in Asia, and a massive 25 million in Sub-Saharan Africa. There, young women are four time more likely to be infected than young men. Tragically, while the availability of antiretroviral medication in the rest of the world is pretty good, in some of those countries, less than 10 per cent of those infected can get the drugs. In some countries in southern Africa, as many as one in four adults is seropositive.
There are some groups worldwide who are more at risk of getting the infection: sex workers, people who inject drugs and men who have sex with men.What do I need to do if I’m positive?
You need to take good care of your body. Eat and live healthily and make sure you don’t stress your immune system. Make sure that you take care of any bleeding wounds you may have. Schedule regular appointments with your health provider to monitor your status. If you are on meds, make sure that you take them as prescribed by your doctor. There are mobile phone apps that can help you remember to take your medications at the right time.
You might also want to consider counseling to help you cope with your disease. And while of course it is important to take care of yourself, you must also ensure that you keep others safe. Use a condom every time you have sex.Are you already infected? Do you have any tips for positive living with HIV? Leave a comment below or join our Facebook discussions.
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Recent Comments (1193)
Thanks for the advice. How
Thanks for the advice. How can I know am affected without going for a test?. What are the earlier signs ?.
Hi Michael,
Hi Michael,
thank you for your question!
The best and most accurate way to find out if you are HIV-positive is to take a test.
HIV is a so-called lentivirus, which means it takes a very long time for signs to show themselves. It takes 8 years on average. But in this time, you can infect others, so if someone thinks they could have HIV, they should get tested as soon as possible.
Many people who are infected have flu-like symptoms 2 to 4 weeks after they have gotten infected. Fever, throat infections and rashes are common then. However, this is not enough to diagnose HIV! Or to say that you are not infected if you didn’t have something like the flu.
I hope this answers your question!
their no signs testing is the
their no signs testing is the way out,so go test asap
Am negative and my partner…
Am negative and my partner is +ve and I do everything for her even unprotected sex for two years and am still negative. As long as the blood does not mix but I lick her pussy, I kiss her and all that.
Collo, Having unprotected…
Collo, Having unprotected sex with your partner who is HIV positive exposes you to the virus and you run the risk of getting infected. Aside from blood, other body fluids also contain HIV including vaginal fluids and semen. While this is something that happens, where one partner is infected and the other is not, continued exposure eventually leads to the HIV negative partner being infected. There are however options that you can use to prevent this from happening including the consistent use of condoms and PrEP. Check out this article;- https://lovematters.co.ke/safe-sex/sti-prevention/pre-exposure-prophylaxis-top-factshttps://lovematters.co.ke/safe-sex/sti-prevention/pre-exposure-prophylaxis-top-facts
m gay and a i av a boyfriend
m gay and a i av a boyfriend who is married to a woman and he is also positive bt he av never told me so but i discorved it my self,help me out plz
Dear Don Sam,
Dear Don Sam,
I’m so sorry to hear about your situation!
The thing you have to do now is get tested for HIV and other STDs as soon as possible. Have you always used condoms when having sex?
The testing might be difficult for you, but it’s best to know your status, rather than being stressed about not knowing.
Let us know how it goes.
Good luck.
Michael, there are no
Michael, there are no exclusive signs associated with HIV and therefore the best way of knowing if one is infected remains being tested.
Are PEP drugs available in
Are PEP drugs available in Kenya. How can I obtain?
Yes, PEP drugs are available
Yes, PEP drugs are available here. You have to go to a healthcare provider as soon as possible after you think you have been exposed. There, you will get the drugs.
jst go in any government
jst go in any government hospital and tell the incident that makes you need pep.its free
I paid
I paid
Rael, the service should be…
Rael, the service should be free at government hospitals.
Keep yourself busy doing
Keep yourself busy doing positive activities to avoid sinking
in stress.
Thanks for your comment, Ruth
Thanks for your comment, Ruth!
Hi Ruth, It is important you…
Hi Ruth, It is important you visit a HIV comprehensive care clinic for further tests and advice on how you can manage the infection.
Good guide and advice
Good guide and advice
Thank you!
Thank you!
Do u think ther will be a
Do u think ther will be a qure 1 day.if i have a life sex with my hasband once a while can he be infected?how about our kids will they be infected?
Hi Sally,
Hi Sally,
great question!
Lots and lots is done to find a cure for AIDS. And, different companies are trying to find a vaccine against the virus, so that people won’t get infected easily. The problem is that the HI-virus can change very quickly- so any attempts for a cure or vaccine have failed so far. Nevertheless, one day there hopefully will be a cure! Let’s keep our fingers crossed!
If you are infected (or your husband is) you can infect him (or he can infect you) if you have sex. So if you have any doubts, please use a condom.
If you give birth when you are HIV-positive, there are many things you can do to avoid infecting your child. Taking ARVs before giving birth, having a C-section and not breast-feeding are all things that can prevent an infection. But a doctor who knows the specific information will be able to give good advice.
hi, its possible to have
hi, its possible to have normal delivery and get a negative healthy baby. u just need to take your medication, then there is a special one for use during labour and finally there is some for the new borne. visit any health facility for more
Thank you Edwin for your
Thank you Edwin for your input.
For how long can it take for
For how long can it take for AIDS to develop in someone who has been reinfected by different people who are infected?
Hi Namata,
Hi Namata,
very interesting question and a difficult question, too!
Reinfection, or ‘superinfection’ as it is sometimes called, can happen. For a long time, scientists weren’t sure, but recent studies seem to confirm it.
Getting reinfected can mean that you get a different type of the HI-virus than the one that was already in your body. That could make treatment more difficult, once the CD 4+ count demands treatment.
To your question: you could develop AIDS faster if you are reinfected. And, if you are reinfected, your long-term prognosis may be poorer compared to people who only are infected by one type of HIV.
And especially if you already have AIDS and are in ARVs, any spike in viral load (through reinfection), could have a negative impact on your body!
So if you are infected: please use condoms, even if you are having sex with someone who is also HIV-positive.
Does that answer your question?
when you are on RVS and you
when you are on RVS and you go for test can your result show negative?
Hi Christine,
Hi Christine,
thank you for your question!
With RVS, do you mean anti-retroviral drugs (ARVs)? The medication used to control the virus?
Being on ARVs should not affect your test results, as most tests try to see if you have antibodies against the HI-virus in your blood.
Also, ARVs are only given to a patient who has been confirmed with having HIV. And before giving ARVs, a doctor will do several other blood tests to see if the ARVs are already.
Does that help?
Christine thanks for your
Christine thanks for your question.i just want to assure you that ARS don’t cure HIV but improve quality of life.Therefore,you can never test negative even if you are on ARS.
Hope the helpful way is to
Hope the helpful way is to come up with a drug or vaccine which wil prevent the penatration of the virus 2 the body cells
Hi Stacy,
Hi Stacy,
we hope so too!
Unfortunately, this is very difficult, because the virus reproduces very fast and has many, many different forms, because it also mutates quickly. And those small mutations make it difficult to find medications or vaccines that are effective against all the types of HI-viruses!
can a girl become positive if
can a girl become positive if a boy who is positive sacks her breasts?
Hi Carol,
Hi Carol,
this is not likely.
In order to get infected, there needs to be an exchange in blood or body fluids, so this should be safe.
You can read more about what’s safe and what isn’t here:
http://lovematters.co.ke/resource/safe-or-unsafe
Hi,thanx for your advice.my
Hi,thanx for your advice.my neighbour was HIV positive and when he was prescribe to use Arvs he losed his eye sight,what could have course that.also do hear that there are those who are carries,why then.
Hi Kirui,
Hi Kirui,
I don’t know your neighbour and it’s hard to make a judgement of what happened when you have little information.
But I suspect that he didn’t lose his eye sight due to the ARVs (even though they can have lots of side effects), but to a common infection that affects HIV-positive people. The so-called opportunistic infections take advantage of the weak immune system of patients. Losing sight could be the result of an opportunistic infection called CMV, or cytomegalovirus, that attacks the cells of the eye.
As for your second question, carriers is sometimes used to describe those people who are HIV-positive but don’t have AIDS yet. It takes 8 years on average for AIDS to develop; before there aren’t usually symptoms, but others can still be infected by the carrier.
Does that make sense? Let us know if you have more questions.
could your neighbor be on
could your neighbor be on anti TB drugs? that’s a possible cause.
carriers could be due to lack of proteins receptors, or inactivity of the virus at lysogenic stage or still the person might be a slow developer with respect to hiv development
Thanks Edwin for your input.
Thanks Edwin for your input.
How long does it take to test
How long does it take to test positive after inffection(window period in kenya)Is 5 months accurate to rule out hiv?
Hi Sanchez,
Hi Sanchez,
great question.
The World Health Organization says it’s best to test 3 months after the incident (if you think you got infected) and then double-check another 3 months later.
It takes at least a month for the body to start producing antibodies against the virus, and that is what is usually tested. So if there aren’t enough, you get a false-negative test result.
Does this help?
why is it that afected couple
why is it that afected couple when they have a chirld with care the chirld born unafected yet virus transimited through fluid,why is it that virus does not pass da sperms
Hi Kevin,
Hi Kevin,
that’s a really good question!
Firstly, the virus through the sperm only affects the mother, not the baby.
And if the mother is HIV-positive, there are measures that can be taken to avoid having the child be positive, too. This is called ‘Prevention of mother-to-child transmission.’ This includes giving the mother ARVs, not breastfeeding, and possibly doing a C-section to avoid having the mum and the baby exchange any blood.
Does that make it clearer?
hi. i just discovered that my
hi. i just discovered that my nephew who is 16yrs was born hiv positive. he has been sickly and very emaciated since childhood but i didnt know the cause until recently. does he need to be put to arvs immediately?
how do i tell him that he is hiv positive?
Hi Tattiana,
Hi Tattiana,
very sorry to hear about your nephew!
Are you 100% sure he is positive? Did he take a test?
Regarding the ARVs: that is to be determined by a doctor. If his CD4+-cell count (those immune cells that are affected by the HI-virus) are below 350/mm3, then he should be on ARVs. By the way, last week, WHO released new guidelines, saying that patients with CD4+ count as high as 500/mm3 should take ARVs. But that’s for your nephew’s doctor to decide.
As for telling him: he has the right to know. And think of the consequences: he cannot protect others from getting infected if and when he has sex. Worst case, he could even get reinfected. As for the how, that’s more difficult and depends on the kind of relationship you have with him. Maybe it’s a good idea to have his doctor tell him and be there for him at the same time.
Let us know how it goes, please!
If you are not infected and
If you are not infected and you have sex with one who is and use pep after. are you safe
Masinde,
Masinde,
only a test will tell. Finish Pep and then get tested 6 weeks and 3 months after you had the unprotected intercourse.
He needs to be taken to
He needs to be taken to hospital and enrol for the care and treatment clinic. You need to gauge his understanding of the HIV virus and then fill in the knowledge gaps. At 16 he’s old enough to understand what is happening.
What happens if one partner
What happens if one partner is positive and the other is negative and u dont use protection.Am asking about discordant couples pliz tel me more.Does it mean that the negative partner is clean n cant transmit it?
Hi Shix,
Hi Shix,
If one partner is negative and the other one is positive, the chances are that the negative partner will get infected over time. That’s why discordant couples should use condoms every time they have sex, and for all forms of sex, so even for oral sex, and especially for vaginal and anal sex.
But it can take some time for the negative partner to get it. If someone who is positive has sex with a HIV-negative person, it doesn’t mean that he or she gets infected immediately.
There are a few people who are resistant to the virus. They have a mutation (change) in one part of their genes, the CCR5 allele. But that’s only a few people. And sero-discordant couples should always use protection!
Am a 1st year medical student
Am a 1st year medical student.., av been thinkig, can the research team come up with a radial type of healing this virus if it changes with time?
Hi Joe,
Hi Joe,
thanks for your question.
I am not sure if you have covered basic virology in your studies yet, but the HI-virus has an extremely high mutation rate and reproduces very quickly. It is in fact so high, that a single patient may have several genetically slightly different types of the virus in his body every day! And because of this, developing a vaccine or a treatment for HIV is very, very difficult.
Does that answer your question?
How does it happen to have
How does it happen to have one partner is HIV positive and the other is Negative and yet are married.Shud they continue with protected sex and if need a child how should they do?
Hi Mark,
Hi Mark,
yes, discordant couples (one negative, one positive) should always have protected sex.
As for the best way to conceive a child and make sure it’s HIV negative and the uninfected partner stays that way, it’s best to talk to a doctor about your wishes. It is possible to conceive, by for example putting the infected partner on ARVs to reduces his or her viral load for some time even if this is not yet medically necessary. There are several other options available, but it’s best to talk to a healthcare provider who knows the discordant couple’s situation better.
As for how it can happen that one is positive and the other negative- one of the partner could have been infected through unsafe sex, drug use (needle sharing), unclean needles or a blood transfer, just like any other person, married or unmarried can get infected.
Does that help?
just live positively is like
just live positively is like any desease
Hi there,
Hi there,
thanks for your comment!
HIV/AIDS is a little different from many other diseases, because there is no cure, and it will eventually kill you.
And you can protect yourself and others from getting it!
yea juz lyk any tragic road
yea juz lyk any tragic road accident
Am not sure that’s a good
Am not sure that’s a good comparison Jes
its tattiana again, thanks
its tattiana again, thanks for the advice.
i am 100% sure that my niece is hiv positive because he was sickly and i took him to a doc who suggested that he takes the test. it tested +ve for hiv i and ii.
i will hook him and his mom(the mom doesnt know too) to the doc so that they may be cancelled on what to do next. thanks once again.
Hi Tattiana,
Hi Tattiana,
thanks for the clarification!
The doctor will know which course to best take with your nephew.
Good luck with everything and let us know if we can do anything else!
If they are properly informed
If they are properly informed about their status(with love and care- thru counseling) then you do not need to worry about anything. I have seen many teenagers come for drugs at a facility I frequent and they are not gloomy- they have learnt to cope with what they are gong through.
does hiv/aids kills instantly
does hiv/aids kills instantly
Hi Ken,
Hi Ken,
no, HIV/AIDS doesn’t kill instantly.
It works in three stages: the first two are infection stages, the acute infection with HIV which lasts a few weeks, and the second stage, which is called ‘clinical latency’. This means that there are viruses in the body, but it’s not full-blown AIDS yet. That stage can last anywhere between three and 20 years, but on average it’s 8 years. There are usually no symptoms in that stage.
The last stage is AIDS. That’s when people start getting so-called ‘opportunistic infections’. Those are diseases they get because their immune system is weakened by the HI-virus and can’t fight other diseases anymore.
If there is no medication available, somebody with AIDS is likely to die within 6 to 20 months. With medication, the life expectancy is much higher; people on ARVs live much longer than those who aren’t taking medication.
Does circumcision of men help
Does circumcision of men help in reducing the spread of the virus?
Hi Joyline,
Hi Joyline,
great question!
There is some scientific evidence that in places with lots of HIV and where men are not routinely circumcised, it can prevent some HIV infections. But there are still lots of questions about it.
Also, every unnecessary medical procedure carries risks, like infection.
And, some people say the circumcising a man can have negative psychological effects on him.
So there is no true or false answer to your question!
had sex n almst two weeks
had sex n almst two weeks lter i hear the guy has bn sick fr over ten yrs wat cn i do to avoid the desease?or ts already in?
Hi Brey,
Hi Brey,
please get tested for HIV and other STDs.
And depending on when you had sex, get tested again in a few months, because it can take some time for the test to be accurate.
It is too late for post-exposure-prophylaxis. It needs to be started as soon as possible after you had unsafe sex, but no later than 72 hours after.
And please have safe sex from now on! Use a condom to avoid getting an STD.
avoid further spread
avoid further spread
Is there something like MDR
Is there something like MDR hiv n if yes how do u handle it.
Hi Nancy,
Hi Nancy,
great question!
There are resistant strains of HIV, yes, but not to the extend of MDR-TB.
The HI-virus mutates very, very quickly, and there are millions of different strains of the virus out there and some are resistant to some drugs.
That is why ARVs are usually given as a ‘cocktail’ of three different drugs, working on three different places on the virus. That way, if the virus is resistant to one of the drugs, it can still get handled by the other drugs. This is called HAART, or highly affective antiretroviral therapy.
However, there are already some cases with resistance to HAART. So for them, there is Mega-HAART, which combined even more medication to keep the infection at bay.
But as time goes by, more and more strains of the virus will become resistant. That’s why it’s important to continue developing new medications and hopefully also a vaccine against HIV.
Does that answer your question?
Hi,i had sex with a a call
Hi,i had sex with a a call gal 3 months ago n in the process a condom broke.but again i was taking slimming teas,i went for a test and it came out negative.does slimming tea make the chances of hiv being seen in blood at 3 months fewer?
Hi Wanda,
Hi Wanda,
slimming teas shouldn’t have any effect on the outcome on an HIV-test. But maybe you discovered something new here :-)?!
Get tested again in another three months please- sometimes it can take a while for the antibodies to show up on the test.
Good luck!
NO CMMENT
NO CMMENT
Hi,
Hi,
Do general screening of blood sample in the lab show whether one has HIV/AIDS?
Hi Kip,
Hi Kip,
unless one looks for the HIV-antibodies in the blood sample, it is unlikely that the results will indicate HIV.
But it depends what your blood got tested for, so it’s hard to be sure.
If you want to know if you have HIV, make sure that you tell your doctor that you want your blood tested for HIV or go to the nearest VCT.
What happens when all the
What happens when all the ARVs regime fail to work? and how can you help someone who skips taking the ARVs and is tired of it.
Hi Dorothy,
Hi Dorothy,
when all ARV regimes fail to work, it will be only a matter of time for the virus to attack all CD4+ cells in the person, and completely destroy their immunity. The body will not be able to fight off any other infections, and eventually, the patient will die.
Skipping ARVs is pretty dangerous. Every time someone stops taking them (even for a day), the virus levels in the blood will spike again, and attack new cells. And, if the person then chooses to have unprotected sex, he or she is far more likely to pass on the virus to the sex partner.
Taking ARVs regularly can be a drag, and the side-effects can be very tiring. But skipping ARVs is dangerous and not good for the infected person’s health. So if someone wants to live as long as possible, ARVs are not optional. It may sound blunt, but unfortunately, that’s the way it is.
hi, keep up the good work,
hi, keep up the good work, and can the discondact couples give birth without infecting the other partner? if yes how?
Hi Deborah,
Hi Deborah,
thank you, we love hearing that we are doing good work.
Yes, it is possible to have a baby in a discordant relationship without getting the other partner infected. There are several different options, depending on who is the infected partner, and if he or she already has developed AIDS.
One of the options is putting the infected partner on ARVs, so that the amount of viruses in the body is very low and the risk of infection is also very low.
There is another method called ‘sperm washing’. Sometimes, in-vitro fertilization is also an option.
But it’s best for the discordant couple to discuss their options with a doctor who knows their situation.
hi am tins.my question is
hi am tins.my question is what could the problem me to cause different test results?
Hi,
Hi,
tricky question!
Different test results could have a number of different reasons.
Generally, HIV tests are pretty reliable. But sometimes they can be wrong.
The quick tests, with which you get a result in a few minutes, are the least reliable (but still very good!). Which is why, if you test positive on that test, a more accurate blood test is performed. That can take up to two weeks to get results.
Was that your case? The first test was positive and a more specific test negative? Or do you have another experience?
great page.
great page.
Thank you 🙂
Thank you 🙂
1.I sucked vaginal fluid and
1.I sucked vaginal fluid and I later confirmed she was positive, can i get infected?
2. Can i test positive after four weeks
Hi Olivia,
Hi Olivia,
oral sex is a low-risk activity when it comes to the HIV virus. However, there is still a risk, so yes, you could have gotten infected. By the way, sucking 1 l of vaginal fluid sounds very unlikely.
Four weeks is rather early to get tested, your body may not have produced antibodies yet. So please get tested again in 2 months and then again after another three months.
And always use protection from now on!
thank for the good work.i got
thank for the good work.i got infected before i got married n ve accepted the fact and am lving positvly.with my status i would love to get married.plz,is there site or a club of getting patr with the same status?if yes ,which one.thanks.
Hi Milkah,
Hi Milkah,
we are not sure, but will look into it and let you know.
My first guess is trying to join support groups for people living with HIV. Maybe you could met someone there?
Good luck!
Thanx 4 ur ans. Another qsn
Thanx 4 ur ans. Another qsn is mega-HAART a combination of 3drugs also and can people on HAART use hormonal based form of contraception.
Hi Nancy,
Hi Nancy,
there is some scientific evidence that the combined oral contraceptive pill is somewhat less effective for women on HAART. But methods like the injections and hormonal IUDs are not affected by ARVs. So some hormonal methods may work better than others. Your healthcare provider may be able to answer that question better for your specific situation.
HAART is usually a combination of three drugs, while mega-HAARTis the combination of even more drugs.
Does that help?
am 34 yrs, i went for HIV
am 34 yrs, i went for HIV test during my 2nd pregnancy and tested +ve, i was not put on ARV’s, after birth my child was put on drugs, i ve never gone 2 get tested again, coz i fear i might be shocked, but instead i ve been praying God to take care of me and my family, am healthy and i always think that if a go for testing i may get stressed up and give up in life when the results come out, i believe if i just live a positive life i will live longer and take care of my girls. please advice, its now 8 yrs since i was tested.
Hi Victoria,
Hi Victoria,
I’m a bit confused.
Are you afraid to be tested positive again?
Are you still on drugs?
I would strongly advise you to get tested again if you are not sure- if you are positive, and are close to the AIDS stage of HIV infection, taking ARVs will prolong your life considerably. So you should really consider this, especially because of your girls. They need their mum around and as healthy as possible, so please consider it for them!
Does this help?
please go for the test. I
please go for the test. I lived in blissfull ignorance (knowing that I was most probably tested but not wanting to confirm). Afew years down the line and my CD4 count was lower that 50. I got quick into drugs. Please go and get tested and fatser into drugs. I am much better, stronger and happier-even planning for marriage
do those suffering from
do those suffering from sickle cell disease also get infected by hiv/ AIDS
Hi Larry, yes, people with
Hi Larry, yes, people with sickle cell disease do get infected with HIV. But: they have a 70% lower odds of getting infected than those without sickle cell anemia, according to the International AIDS Society. Also, the progression of HIV is slower if you have sickle cell disease. In fact, the interactions between sickle cell disease and HIV are studied very intensely, because researchers hope to get new ideas for research and cure out of it!
What makes infants less than
What makes infants less than 5yrs more vulnerable to aids?can witch doctors cure the disease?
Hi Wazir,
Hi Wazir,
no witch doctors can’t cure the disease. Neither can witchcraft cause the disease.
Infants are mostly vulnerable if their parents are HIV positive. The mother can pass on the virus during delivery unless precautions are taken. Breastfeeding can also be a way to pass on the virus.
Other than that, unless the child has a contaminated blood transfusion, infants of healthy parents are not particularly vulnerable to HIV.
Hey itz Joel,wen a berber iz
Hey itz Joel,wen a berber iz making u a cut when being shave n accidentally he or she cuts u n u bleed n mayb tha same machine had cut a person who iz hiv+,cn u get infected?
Hi Joel,
Hi Joel,
as far as we know, there are no known cases of getting HIV from a barber shop or salon.
The virus can’t survive long outside the body, and once it’s exposed to air or water, there is no longer any risk of infection.
However, cleanliness at the barber’s is still important. So make sure they use clean blades and machines on you!
what are the side effect of
what are the side effect of ARVS i want to know this coz i have seen people who grow fat others thin while they are on arvs and also can arvs affect the eyes sight
Hi Dorcus,
Hi Dorcus,
side-effects of ARVs can include nausea, vomiting, headaches, diarrhea, sleep problems, muscle pain and memory problems. It’s also possible to feel tired and sluggish, and a little unwell.
Problems with eye sight is less likely to be a side effect, but a common infection that affects HIV-positive people. The so-called opportunistic infections take advantage of the weak immune system of patients. Losing sight could be the result of an opportunistic infection called CMV, or cytomegalovirus, that attacks the cells of the eye.
can’t the doctors determine
can’t the doctors determine the type of HIV strain in one’s system before giving medication to avoid pumping strong drugs(mega-HAART) to an already weak system?
Hi Rachel,
Hi Rachel,
very good question!
In fact, doctors do that. There are two types of HIV-strains to start with: HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-2 is very, very rare however, so let’s focus on HIV-1. HIV-1 is further divided into the subgroups M, N, O, P. The last three are rare again, the big majority of HIV-positive patients is HIV-1 M. It gets more complicated though: M is again subdivided into categories A-K. Those refer to the regions where the strains are most common. A Kenyan HIV-positive person is most likely HIV-1 M D. But it keeps even more complicated. The virus multiplies really fast, and is very sloppy at doing that. That means that there are millions upon millions of mutations happening every day to the viruses inside of all the HIV-positive people. So even within the subcategories, the viruses differ.
This makes it very hard for medications to work. That’s why people are given a cocktail of three different drugs (HAART), that work on two different parts of the virus replication, which is essential for the virus spreading and taking over the body.
This also avoids the virus from getting resistant. There are viruses already that are resistant to some drugs, so by giving more than one, the chances of adaptation by the virus are lower.
Mega-HAART (more than three drugs) is only given to people who don’t respond to HAART. And I understand that it seems odd to pump drugs into a weak body- but it’s either that and trying to prolong life, or a rather quick death.
I know that this sounds kind of abstract: does it make sense?
we have to take part in
we have to take part in ensuring the positive ones are not stigmized
Hi Annjune,
Hi Annjune,
that’s 100% true!
What do you do not to stigmatize? We’d love to hear more!
hi i just wanted 2 contribute
hi i just wanted 2 contribute on the quiz of y a child can b born HIV negative 4rm HIV positive parent ts coz the sperm and ova do not contain the virus its the semen and ather genital fluids…and HIV virus does not cross the placenta barrier so if correct measures are taken during the pregnancy and delivery everything is okey also the mother is adviced to take nevirapine just when she starts experiencing labour pains and the baby is given arv monotherapy as a prophylaxis immediately after delivery…lastly the mother is allowed between exclusive breastfeeding for 6 month without any suppliment or just give supliment without breast milk…
Hi there,
Hi there,
thanks a lot for your input!
One small thing though- about 5-20% of babies do get infected through breastfeeding, which is why WHO advises HIV-positive mothers not to breastfeed at all.
hi ! there is this issue that
hi ! there is this issue that i heard and shocked me very much that if you take a lemon juice and apply on the genitals before you do sex is a save way of preventing yourself from contracting HIV is this one realy true cos ithink that this not a safe way of preventing ourselve from this disease plz help
Hi Geoffrey,
Hi Geoffrey,
please don’t try that! Yet!
But you are right, there are some clinical trials looking into it! It’s quite fascinating actually, and, in fact, lemon halves were uses as cervical caps centuries ago. And lemon juice kills sperm cells very quickly,
But for now, much more research into the pros and cons and the actual working mechanisms is needed. Until it is an approved method, please stick to condoms!
Hi, I had unprotected sex a
Hi, I had unprotected sex a girl with HIV +VE 100% and she was on ARVs Treatment for long. We met her 9months ago and i tested my self 3 times up to now which means after every 3 months once. and still am Negative answer so is that shows i am surely negative from HIV or other stages remind ?.
Dear Adam,
Dear Adam,
please, please, please start using condoms!
You were very lucky so far, but that doesn’t mean you will continue to be lucky.
It’s quite possible that you haven’t been infected (especially if you two only had sex a few times and if she was on ARVs), but to avoid infection in the future, use condoms!
If you tested negative 9 months after you had sex with her once, then yes, you should be negative. If you had sex with her more often during this time period, then you should wait for at least 6 months until you can be sure that you are negative.
Does that answer your question?
Am Joy n am married six
Am Joy n am married six months ago i was txtd +ve n i had only livd wid my husband 4 3months b4 da test,my CD4 was 481 n am on CTX Arvs.my husband dont know n wen we met he said dat he trustd me n we shudnt go for a test,am also 4 months preg,is my baby secure?Ao do i disclose this to him?is my CD 4 count likely to increase?i av a thot of committing suiced ao can i shun tis?
Dear Joy,
Dear Joy,
I strongly urge you to talk to a health care professional.
First of all because of your suicidal thoughts. This is dangerous and you should get some professional help about this as soon as possible.
Secondly because of your baby. If all the necessary precautions are taken during your pregnancy, delivery and the first few months, there is a very good chance that your baby will be healthy.
Also, you need to talk to your husband. Because if you are positive and you keep having unprotected sex together, he might get infected as well. And he should get tested. Maybe he was the one who had it first, and both of you are positive. There is no way of knowing without getting tested. Talking to him will be very difficult, but you have to do it.
About your CD 4+ count: if you are on ARVs, your CD4+ count should increase by 50-150 cells/mm3 per year, and even more than that in the first three months of taking them.
Please don’t hesitate to ask any more questions you have. And please go see a doctor you trust as soon as possible.
All the best!
I messed up in September and
I messed up in September and also in February. I am so scared because maybe I was exposed. I hope I will one day get the guts to take a HIV test.
Dear Yvonne,
Dear Yvonne,
please, please, please get a test done as soon as possible!
I know that taking a test takes guts, especially if you know you could have been exposed, but getting a definite answer is much better than continuously worrying about it!
So take a heart, go to our ‘find a clinic’ section and get tested today!
Let us know how things go!
which are the commonly eaten
which are the commonly eaten foods or spices that interfere with meds or ARVs.
Hi Liz,
Hi Liz,
Generally, you should make sure that you eat well.
You should avoid garlic and onions at the time you are taking your meds (eating them two hours before and after is fine) and always avoid alcohol. Grapefruits or their juice can also interfere with your ARVs.
If you are on ARVs, check with your doctor what to avoid. There are different types of medications, and some may react differently than others.
And if you want to take any food supplements, like vitamins, please check with your doctor first. Vitamin E for example, should also be avoided.
If one is HIV Positive and is
If one is HIV Positive and is on ARV and also has osteoarthritis can she take Omega 3 supplements e.g Projoint with Omega 3 fatty acids or Seven Seas? How about multivitamin capsules like GINSOMIN?
Hi Atieno,
Hi Atieno,
if someone is on ARVs, it’s always best to check with the doctor who is prescribing the ARVs before taking any other medications or supplements. There can be many interferences, so it’s best to check to make sure it’s okay. Vitamin E, for example, should be avoided when on some ARVs.
If one is HIV Positive and is
If one is HIV Positive and is on ARV and also has osteoarthritis can she take Omega 3 supplements e.g Projoint with Omega 3 fatty acids or Seven Seas? How about multivitamin capsules like GINSOMIN?
If u go for a test with a
If u go for a test with a person who is infected with HIV less than three months that means it will not show in a test then u both have unprotected sex is she/he still infectious or in other words if you want to have sex with ur friend and you go for a test and both of u are negative u can proceed and have sex is it safe
Hi Sam,
Hi Sam,
it can take some time for antibodies to show up on an HIV-test. That’s why it’s recommended to take at least two tests over 6 months to make sure one is negative. And by the way, if you had unprotected sex in the those six months, you should get tested twice again over the next half year.
So the answer is: no, just because one test is negative doesn’t necessarily mean someone is really negative. So use a condom for now, wait a while and take another test together before having unprotected sex.
By the way, if someone has recently been infected and they are very infectious and can more easily infect others if having unprotected sex.
informative piece
informative piece
Thanks, Vic!
Thanks, Vic!
hi? i discovered tht the lady
hi? i discovered tht the lady i was dating is hiv pstve arnd 7months ago, since then we separated coz i was very shocked so i dont knw what to i do av not yet tested but am sure am a victim too i lack word to xplain
Dear Elias,
Dear Elias,
please get tested as soon as possible. That will hopefully ease some of your shock.
I can understand your shock, but please, also let this be a lesson to you and always use condoms, unless both of you have tested negative twice in the last 6 months!
Good luck!
Kindly plz can i know ao long
Kindly plz can i know ao long it takes to get the feedback after posting a question.
Dear Joy,
Dear Joy,
We hope we got to your question by now! It usually takes about a day, but through the weekend it can take a bit longer!
want to knw.if a couple are
want to knw.if a couple are both HIV positive n have unprotected sex what could the side effects be….???
Hi there,
Hi there,
good question!
Even couples were both partners are HIV-positive should use protection when they are having sex with each other. That’s because there are many, many different types of the virus, and the couple could reinfect one another with a different type. That can have a negative effect on the progression of the illness and on the effect of medication. Worst case scenario: they could die much sooner.
Does that help?
i would like to thank your
i would like to thank your organization for the encouragement, i have lived positive for the last 16 years the best way out is to live healthy, exercise share problems with other infected persons i have started an organization by the name Joggysports its aim is to involve positive living person engage in doing excercise
Hi Julius,
Hi Julius,
thank you so much for the feedback!
We would love to hear more from you and your organization.
Drop as an email at [email protected] or send us a message on Facebook, and maybe you can tell us more about your organization!
I had a wound on my hand n
I had a wound on my hand n shook hands with HIV person which his hands had some blood. My question is could I have been infected?
Hi Duncan,
Hi Duncan,
it’s unlikely that you got infected that way.
Theoretically, it would be possible, but unless their was actual blood contact, you should be fine.
Just to be on the very safe side, you could get tested- and regular testing is never a bad idea anyway!
Thanx for your answers for my
Thanx for your answers for my last quistions bt still got much to ask,wat or ao do i tel my hubby that am +ve?do i leave him n get a life alone?can i get a online organisation that has the HIV persons that can help me b stable n accept my status?
Dear Joy,
Dear Joy,
the easier part first: I don’t know where you are located, but you can try contacting either WOFAK (Women fighting AIDS in Kenya, http://www.wofak.org.ke), with offices all over Nairobi, Kisumu, Homa Bay and Nakuru or KENWA, Kenya Network for Women with AIDS, http://www.kenwa.org.They have offices in Mathare, Korogocho, Kiambiu and Soweto; Kiandutu in Thika; Mjini in Murang’a and Kiawara in Nyeri.
Secondly: before you start thinking about leaving your husband, you have to tell him the truth. Because he needs to get tested as well. It will be very, very difficult, but you do need to tell him, and sooner rather than later. If you are afraid of telling him, maybe you can ask another family member you trust to be there with you when you tell him. Give him some time afterwards to digest the news.
Have you told anybody about your status yet?
Am now confusd bcz the only
Am now confusd bcz the only person i av told is my sister n she lives far from wea i am married.being in the 4th month of pregnancy can any measures b taken now to protect the baby 4rm being infectd coz av nt startd goin 4 clinics?plz plz i knw the tempers of my husband n thus y a fear most to disclose this n the relatives too i cant dare share with them wat do i do?am damn mad with the issue.
Dear Joy,
Dear Joy,
I understand that you are angry, frustrated and scared.
The most important thing is that you start seeing doctors about the pregnancy and that measures can be taken to assure that your baby is safe and won’t get infected.
Secondly, I understand that you are scared of your husband’s reaction. I suggest you talk to one of the organizations I suggested, they are very experienced with dealing with questions and situations like yours. The reason why it is important for him to know is so that he can get tested as well. He needs to know if he is infected, too.
Joy, can I ask you- how do you think you got infected? Do you know?
I cant even tel ao it happend
I cant even tel ao it happend cz i went to a vct n decided that i shud get test which was not my first time to,i got shockd wen the test turnd out +ve.i av lost the meanin of being in a marriage n i feel i shud call it over n join one of this organizations that u told me abt.
Hi Joy,
Hi Joy,
did you get tested a second time as well?
I understand how confused and angry and sad you must be. But don’t make any rash decisions. Think it through and talk to someone you trust.
Hi.I had sex three weeks ago
Hi.I had sex three weeks ago after five days a friend told me the lady is +positive I went for test which was-negative but l was infected with gonnorrea.dose that mean am already infected with HIV.
Hi Kazungu,
Hi Kazungu,
sorry to hear about that!
No, having gonorrhea doesn’t mean that you have HIV.
But you need to get tested in two months again, and then again after another three months, because it can take a while for your body to get to a stage where the HIV test is accurate.
And please, from now on, always use condoms!
hi, my bf has suffered from
hi, my bf has suffered from mouth ulcers 4 3 mnths, he decided to tek a hiv test & it was +. the dr. adviced him that at times due to the ulcers the results could not be true coz he’s viral load is ok, hes blood is ok, the doc was defeated and advice that he come back 4 another test afta 3 mnths. Question, is it possible 4 a kit to fail?
Hi Tata,
Hi Tata,
yes, in some cases, a test can fail. Which is why, when someone tests positive, more extensive and elaborate tests are being done. If those tests is negative, the tests are repeated again after a few months.
So yes, it’s possible that the test failed. But to be safe, get tested and retested regularly, and get extensive testing done.
Hi, interesting learn of
Hi, interesting learn of the latest guidelines that patients with cd4 of 500/mm3 should be initiated on HAART
Hi Mwala,
Hi Mwala,
yes, this is true. WHO rolled out those guidelines very recently, and one of the recommendations was to start ARVs as early as with a CD4+-count of 500/mm3 as opposed to 350/mm3.
If you are interested in having a look at the full guidelines, here is the link:
http://natap.org/2013/IAS/9789241505727_eng.pdf
IF YOU ARE RHESUS POSITIVE
IF YOU ARE RHESUS POSITIVE DOES IT MEANS YOUR HIV POSITIVE
Hi there,
Hi there,
good question!
The rhesus factor has nothing to do with your HIV status. It’s something that is genetically based, an antigen that sits on a red blood cell. If you have it, you are positive, and your blood group will, for example, be A +. If you don’t have it, your blood group would be A -. It’s important for blood transfusions, and sometime can be an issue during pregnancy, but it has nothing to do with HIV!
I recently tested negative
I recently tested negative after 3 months of post exposure.Am i likely to get a different result(be hiv +ve) at 6 months? Am nt sexually active now
Hi Wanda,
Hi Wanda,
to be on the safe side, you should get tested again 6 months after the exposure. If you tested negative at three months, there is a good chance that you will also be negative at six months. Unless you had unprotected sex in the meantime, exposing you again. But it’s not a guarantee, so please get tested again to be sure!
hw long does it take for the
hw long does it take for the first signs to appear upon infection by the HI-virus?
Hi Jeremmy,
Hi Jeremmy,
HIV is a lentevirus- that means that there is a long time between the initial infection and the first time you start having symptoms.
Some people have flu-like symptoms a few weeks after they first get infected. And after that, it takes on average 8 years to develop symptoms. Some have symptoms earlier, some later.
I dint test for a second time
I dint test for a second time,is it necessary?wat cud b the benefit of this second test?
Hi Joy,
Hi Joy,
sometimes, the tests can be wrong. The quick tests, as done at VCTs, sometimes give so-called false-positive results, meaning it shows a positive result when you are negative. Which is why someone who tests negative there, are referred to hospitals and labs that do more in-depth tests, to rule out that there was a mistake. Please don’t get your hopes up because the chance that the test was wrong is very, very small, but you should consider getting tested again.
Do you know if your husband every got tested?
Ok,il go back for the test,my
Ok,il go back for the test,my husband works in dubai n he told me that every time he got to travel to dubai after a leave of 3 or 4months he has to get testd xo lastly after his leave in march he told me he got testd n he is -ve of which i wasnt sure of.
Hi Joy,
Hi Joy,
sounds good. Please let us know how things go!
guys lets take responsibility
guys lets take responsibility of everything we do about our sex lives,a lot has been said,information is all over a bout the killer disease,why not take care of ourselves n that of the people we love then?
Well said, Mary!
Well said, Mary!
I went for a test with ma
I went for a test with ma wife she is negative but for me da first testor shows positive indicating two lines but one not very clear,And for unigold testor shows am negative so which is true?
Hi Ally,
Hi Ally,
please go see a doctor about this. They can do a much more accurate blood test (ELISA or Western blot) than the rapid-tests. It will take about two weeks to get a result, but once you have to that, you can be absolutely sure of your status!
Ulipata ansa
Ulipata ansa
my girl friend was HIV
my girl friend was HIV positive and she did not tell so i have been with for two years and after realizing that she was taking RVs I went for a test three times and I was negative yet was not using preventive measure. why?
Hi Tom,
Hi Tom,
There could be several explanations.
First, because she was on ARVs, her viral load was low. That means that she was less likely to pass the virus on to someone she had sex with.
And then secondly, nature was kinder to men than to women when it came to HIV transmission. It’s harder for men to get infected than it is for women.
So it looks like you dodged the bullet. Let’s hope you learned from your experience though and that you won’t sleep with a partner again until both of you had an HIV-test done!
Dr.am soo angry with my
Dr.am soo angry with my parents.you see back then 7 years ago i was diagnosed with TB.got 6 months treatment.i have been taking arv bing told its for my cheast problem.both the dr.and my parents have been hiding this.am 20 years old n actually today i have lost the will to leave.
Dear Stephen,
Dear Stephen,
I can understand that you are very angry. Having your doctors and parents keep such information from you is not only morally wrong, but legally as well. You have the right to know. That said, there is nothing you can change about the past. You said you have lost the will to live. I can’t even begin to imagine what you must be going through right now. But please, you must realize that HIV/AIDS is not a straight-away death sentence. You should now focus on treating yourself well, taking your meds, living healthily. Then you have a good chance of living for a long time. You can join a support group. It might help to talk to others who have gone through what you are going through right now.
And I don’t want to justify what your parents did to you, but it must be very, very hard to tell your child that it has a bad disease. So while you have every right to be angry right now, put yourself in their position, as well.
Good luck, and let us know if you have any more questions.
Those infected need only to
Those infected need only to be carefully, eat healthy, live well n things will be okay> otherwise there are more difficult situations than HIV/AIDS
Hi Lucy,
Hi Lucy,
you are right, those infected need to take good care of themselves. But keep in mind that AIDS can still be a life-threatening disease, and that coping with this is very hard!
Who is likely to Infect the
Who is likely to Infect the other at first sex.when kssng persn with wouds In mouth cn one b infctd?
Hi Paul,
Hi Paul,
if you are infected, yes it is absolutely possible to infect the other person, even if it is a virgin. And please don’t believe in the myth that having sex with a virgin can cure someone who is infected.
And to answer your question: the infected person is likely to infect the other. If the infected person is a man, he is more likely to infect his partner than if the infected person is a woman.
As for kissing with mouth wounds- there is a tiny chance to get infected if both of you are bleeding in your mouth. But then, how often do you kiss someone who is bleeding from their mouths while you are bleeding as well?
why people not like to ship
why people not like to ship syrup of trees roots,and it’s healing hiv/aids? and why Government is not helping local researchers,or to do the real research of HIV/AIDS,CANCER,KIDNEY,LIVER,STROKE,MENINGITIS,and those untreatable diseases?
Hi Charles,
Hi Charles,
right now, there are no cures available for HIV/AIDS, so even sipping tree syrup won’t help.
And governments and private initiatives all over the world are working very hard with their research to find a cure, and a vaccine for HIV/AIDS. Unfortunately, finding a cure for this and many other diseases is very difficult. Take HIV for example. The virus changes very, very quickly, through mutations. So there are billions of different viruses. And one drug needs to cure all of them at once, without the virus being able to adapt and become immune to the drug.
Does this help in answering your questions?
hey.my boyfried was diagnosed
hey.my boyfried was diagnosed with herps at his back.near his neck.cold he be suffering from hiv
Hi Josleen,
Hi Josleen,
no, having herpes is not necessarily an indication of HIV. Especially if it’s on his back. There are many different forms of herpes, and if it’s on his back, it’s not genital herpes.
However, having (genital) herpes can increase your risk of infection. And, a lot of people who are infected get herpes at some stage.
So it might be a good idea to get tested (both of you, by the way) just to make sure. Especially if you are having sex without a condom.
i had sex sometimes back but
i had sex sometimes back but withdrew before ejaculation was complete. are there chances that i got infected in the process???
Hi Joe,
Hi Joe,
Using withdrawal may reduce the risk of transmitting HIV because the woman is not exposed to semen. Even with withdrawal, however, there is a risk of HIV transmission because the pre-ejaculate fluid may also contain HIV.
But the only way to properly protect you and your partner is using a condom. So please do that!
iz it true that when having
iz it true that when having sex with a +ve partner and the gal is ever wet means that she got low changes of hiv
Hi Nazneen,
Hi Nazneen,
no, wetness doesn’t mean that there are low chances a woman has HIV.
However, lubrication, especially with anal sex, can reduce the chance of getting infected. But, using a condom in combination with lots of lube is the best way to avoid infection.
Stay safe!
good advice kip it ap
good advice kip it ap
Ho Oiwiki,
thanks, we will!
Ho Oiwiki,
thanks, we will!
hi please tell me how long
hi please tell me how long does it take for one to know that he/she has get infected
Hi there,
Hi there,
on average it takes about three months after the possible infection for antibodies to build up in big numbers and for a rapid test to work accurately. But it’s recommended to do another test three months after the first test, just to make sure.
Good luck!
Good questions and answers, I
Good questions and answers, I like them
Thanks, Winnie!
Thanks, Winnie!
ur ok
ur ok
is it most likely that most
is it most likely that most people tend to be infected after orgasm ad what if you had sex ad there was no orgasm?
Hi Emash,
Hi Emash,
yes, sperm contains HIV but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get infect a woman if you don’t ejaculate. Precum for example may contain the virus.
So please, consistently use condoms to protect yourself and your partner!
I visited a brothel last
I visited a brothel last month. I put on a condom but before I could penetrate the prostitute completely, the condom broke. I removed it and put on a new one and had sex to completion. What are the chances that I might have been infected when the condom first broke before full penetration?
Hi Kibby,
Hi Kibby,
you should be fine, the risk of getting HIV from such an incident is rather low.
Nevertheless, if you are a regular brothel visitor, make sure that you get tested for HIV (and other STDs) every three months.
I hav a gal frnd bt she has
I hav a gal frnd bt she has blac pumpoZ on her belly skin could she b having aids and she is hidding
Hi Mnr,
Hi Mnr,
relationships and especially sex are about trust. You don’t seem to trust your girl very much. Otherwise you would ask her about the bumps and wouldn’t speculate if she is hiding something. The fact that you ask this question makes me believe you are having unprotected sex with her. If you are, I strongly urge you to start trusting her, or else use condoms.
It’s unlikely that the bumps say anything about her HIV-status.
Is there a situation where
Is there a situation where someone can test +ve for the 1st time and when go to different clinic next time for a test he tests -ve?
Hi Jacinta,
Hi Jacinta,
in rare cases, this is possible, yes.
Rapid HIV test (like the ones most VCTs use) are made to detect as many cases of HIV as possible, and rather have a few false positives rather than not picking up on a case. So sometimes, someone who is negative, shows positive on the test.
This is why generally, people who are tested positive, will undergo a second, more intense blood test at a proper lab.
So in this case, where one test was negative and the other positive, I would strongly advise having a proper blood test done, to be sure of the status.
I had sex with a lady,i used
I had sex with a lady,i used condom but towards ejaculation i removed the condom n released to her.After two months we went with her for a test, she was +ve and i tested -ve. plz advice me what might be happening?
Hi Alan,
Hi Alan,
please go back for another test. Chances are you are okay, but it’s advisable to get tested three months after unprotected intercourse and then again after another three months.
And please, from now on, consistently use condoms until both of you have tested negative together.
wat if u realize dat ur
wat if u realize dat ur husband is cheating on u,can u go 4 a test without him?
Hi Lucy,
Hi Lucy,
you can go and take a test whenever you think it’s necessary, regardless of your husband,
But, if he’s cheating on you regularly, it would be best for him to get tested, too. Even though let’s hope that he at least uses condoms.
Have you talked to him about the cheating?
I congratulate u guys because
I congratulate u guys because of helping many people kudos!
Thanks Caro!
Thanks Caro!
hi l feel to be tested, what
hi l feel to be tested, what can l do so as to have confidence in me. thanks.
Hi Francis,
Hi Francis,
testing can be a scary experience. But it’s not scary than living with the fear of not knowing your status.
Why don’t you ask a good friend to join you, and go for the test together? You can say that you read an article on testing and are curious as to how it works in real life.
I’m sure you’ll be just fine going to get tested!
Good luck!
how long can one stay with
how long can one stay with the virus while taking the ARVS
Hi Rose,
Hi Rose,
the goal when taking ARVs is to get the viral load in the body to an undetectable level. With good compliance (meaning that the medication is taking regularly) and there are no complications, this often works out well for many years.
hi,pple should be
hi,pple should be extracareful with this deadly monster,if you are infected follow tha instruction given by the doctor en if you are not infected pliz be careful
Hi Paul,
Hi Paul,
we agree with you, let’s all be careful!
Hi, thanx for the good work,
Hi, thanx for the good work, my question is, if there is another way of testing HIV, a friend told me that I can mix lemon and water and then put some drops of blood in it and if the blood clots then am +ve but if it mixes up am – ve.
Hi Anita,
Hi Anita,
it’s true that there is lots of experiments going on related to HIV and lemons. Lemon juice can kill both the virus and sperm, so it’s not that far off to think it might work for testing, too.
However, I would strongly suggest that instead of brewing up blood-lemon juice concoctions at home you visit a proper VCT facility. Testing is free, and you won’t be in doubt of whether you have done it correctly or if it really works afterwards.
Have heard of Prep pliz tell
Have heard of Prep pliz tell us about it
Hi Pam,
Hi Pam,
PReP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis.
It means that ARVs are given to people who are at very high risk of getting HIV. This prevention strategy is still considered experimental in some countries, but is getting approved more and more
Hello.I have been hiv+ for
Hello.I have been hiv+ for the last five yrs and have not started arvs.Healthwise i look ok, but for the last one yr have been struggling with a skin infection which dermatologist have failed to treat. I fear to go to a public utility for arvs.Give me a contact of a private consultant/doctor coz i can sponsor myself.
Hello Nice,
Hello Nice,
you can find a range of both public and private health facilities in your area (especially if you live in Nairobi) in our ‘Find a clinic’ section.
Your skin infections could be an indication for your viral load increasing, so please have your CD4+-count and viral load checked as soon as possible.
how about if i do unprotected
how about if i do unprotected sex and i don’t get a wound?
Hi Winnie,
Hi Winnie,
unfortunately, the virus is not only found in blood, but also in vaginal fluids and sperm, so unprotected sex always puts you at risk.
So please don’t have unprotected sex unless both you and your partner went for a test and you are faithful to each other.
can someone get hiv by
can someone get hiv by cutting her? ??
Hi Mary dear,
Hi Mary dear,
I’m not quite sure I understand.
For someone to get infected, there needs to be blood (or vaginal/seminal fluid) contact.
So, if an infected person is bleeding, unless the other person has a bleeding would as well, it’s difficult to get infected.
Or are you asking about female genital cutting? If a girl/woman is cut with unclean instruments, there is the chance of transmission. For for cut women, there is a bigger chance with wounds during sex, so it’s possible to get infected that way as well.
Does this answer your question? Feel free to clarify if we didn’t get it!
okay the thing is am hiv+ and
okay the thing is am hiv+ and was using the blade and by bad luck I got cut by it and after 20minutes my baby was cut by the some blade but had passed the blade in the water
Hi Mary dear,
Hi Mary dear,
that should be fine. The virus can’t survive outside the body for long and if you washed the blade and there wasn’t any visible blood left, your baby should be fine.
In 2011 i had unprotected sex
In 2011 i had unprotected sex with a prostitute and after 24hr i got tested n results were negative.i was given peps which i took for 28 days n after 90 days (28 days included) i went for a test again and i was found negative n i was told that there was no need for another test.my fear was, whether peps could have prolonged the normal window period.help
Hi Ivuti,
Hi Ivuti,
why don’t you just go for another test? Then you can stop speculating and fearing.
After taking PEP and with a negative test after 90 tests you should be fine, but just to be on the safe side (and for peace of mind), please get tested.
thanx for your help keep up
thanx for your help keep up the good work and God bless you guys big time
Hi Mary dear,
Hi Mary dear,
thank you for your compliment!
Spread the word about us!
i have a sex with one of the
i have a sex with one of the sex commercial workers unfortunately condom burst i fear that am infected
Hi Ezekiel,
Hi Ezekiel,
if this happened within the last few hours, you can go to any health centre and get post-exposure prophylaxis.
If it’s been a while, wait three months and then get tested, wait another three months and get tested again. Also, until you test negative twice, use condoms with all your sex partners!
Good luck!
thanks for your ans. when one
thanks for your ans. when one is on ARVs does it reduce chances of infecting their partner?
Hi Maggy,
Hi Maggy,
yes, it does.
The ARVs bring the viral load down, the amount of virus someone has in their blood. And the lower the viral load, the lower the chance of infection. The chance is still there though, but much lower!
Hey, l tested positive two
Hey, l tested positive two months ago then started having skin rashes all over my body that leave dark spots.Am on septrine en use hydrocotison for the crashes my CD4 count is at 650.What would suggest l do to do away with the rashes
Hi Queen,
Hi Queen,
I am assuming your doctor prescribed the septrine and the hydrocotison for your rashes. Please go back to your doctor, and let them know that the meds are not working. They should be able to find a more helpful solution.
Good luck!
What of menstral blood?you
What of menstral blood?you use a condon but touch the menstrual blood can you be infected
Hi Irungu,
Hi Irungu,
unless the condom breaks or you have wounds through which the infected menstrual blood could enter, you should be fine. The virus from the infected blood can’t break through skin, so it is very unlikely that you will get infected by touching menstrual blood.
nobody is save!
nobody is save!
Hi there,
Hi there,
and that’s why it’s so important to have safe sex!
me and my wife are hiv
me and my wife are hiv positive, every time we have sex, we use condom, how can we get a child?
Hi Eva,
Hi Eva,
good that you use a condom every time you have sex!
Unfortunately, I don’t know much about your individual situations, like if both of you are on ARVs etc. The best thing for you to do is to go see a doctor who knows about conception for HIV-positive couples and explain your situation. Try calling Family Health Options Kenya, if you don’t know a doctor who could help you. There are ways to conceive even if both of you are HIV positive, and if you stick to some guidelines during the pregnancy, there is a very good chance you can have a HIV-negative baby. Good luck!
Does ARVs interfere with the
Does ARVs interfere with the test Result? My bro last January test positive after taking Arvs for some months, He take the test again and the test result were Negative. What happened?
Hi Maina,
Hi Maina,
let me just see if I got this right: your bro took the test and was positive, was put on ARVs and after a few months, he took the test again and it came back negative?
Hm, that’s interesting and I can’t really find an explanation for this. The ARVs shouldn’t affect the test. The test (at least when using a rapid test, like the ones at VCTs) is looking for antibodies to the virus, not the virus itself. And they would still be there, even if he was on ARVs and had a low viral load.
The best thing to do is discuss this with a doctor, who can do more blood tests and confirm the diagnosis.
Hi, what are the chances of
Hi, what are the chances of an infant to live -vely after C-section then breastfeeding under strict doctor’s prescription & supervision?
Hi Fridah,
Hi Fridah,
a C-section is a good way to avoid getting the baby infected during delivery, but breastfeeding should be avoided. Only some ARVs can get in a woman’s breast milk, and may or may not protect the child. But it’s always the best idea to talk to your doctor about your personal options.
Kudos love matters for a job
Kudos love matters for a job well done,this site is a great help for most guys and we are learning so much…keep up the good work.
Hi there,
Hi there,
thank you so much! We love getting feedback, and are glad to hear that we are doing a good job!
Hi,My sister is living with
Hi,My sister is living with hiv over 4years now,she has never been under any kind of medication but looks very healthy every day,now my question is,is the virus taking any effect on her body?
Hi Fatma,
Hi Fatma,
great question!
HIV is a so-called lentivirus; that means that there is a long period between infection and the first signs. On average, that period is 8 years.
So it’s no surprise your sister looks healthy. But our advice is, to keep her healthy for as long as possible, she should regularly see doctors who can check her status, and put her on ARVs as soon as it is necessary.
i have been feeling weak
i have been feeling weak,muscle pain and joint pain in the legs and arm.
.could this be hiv…
Hi Sammy,
Hi Sammy,
it could be a range of different things. It would be best to see a doctor about this who can make a good diagnosis. To rule out HIV, you can also go to a VCT centre near you and get tested. Also, in the future, please remember to use condoms, to make sure that you won’t have another HIV-scare.
i had girl friend to whom we
i had girl friend to whom we were having unprotected sex but turn out to be posive in january yet we had tested many times before we engged in the act am now worried/terrified bt since then am still negative…..advice pls what can i do as per now its 12 months now since we had sex with her how long does it take the virus to surface
Hi Edwin,
Hi Edwin,
if you have tested negatively six months after the unprotected sex, you should be fine. So seeing that it’s been 12 months and you have been tested, you should be alright. But I hope you have been using condoms ever since!
is the circumsiced part of
is the circumsiced part of the pennis the 1 we protect by using a condom? am asking this because i sometimes find that the condom is almost out. can the other part be infected if there is no wound?
Hi Munyao,
Hi Munyao,
the foreskin, the part that is cut off with circumcision, is indeed the most vulnerable part of the penis. However, circumcision is not a replacement for condoms, there is still a chance to get infected. The chance is much lower, but the only thing that will really protect you is a condom.
thanks, may b u didnt
thanks, may b u didnt understand me, i was asking if u realize after having sex that the condom is covering the forefront only, can u still get infected given the fact that the other part of the pennis is not protected?
Hi Munyao,
Hi Munyao,
there is a slight chance, yes. The foreskin is the most vulnerable part of the penis when it comes to HIV, so having that covered is good, but there is still a slight chance. So you might want to get tested three months after the unprotected intercourse and three months later again.
ok, thanks
ok, thanks
You are very welcome!
You are very welcome!
u said kissing,smouching
u said kissing,smouching doesn’t spread HIV
Hi Nina,
Hi Nina,
that’s right. Unless two people have serious wounds in their mouths, there is no risk of infection. Saliva (spit) has contain the virus, but only in very small amounts. You would need to swallow buckets of an infected persons saliva to become infected.
i know of someone who is on
i know of someone who is on ARV’S and each time he takes meals with proteins mostly beef and beans he ends up swelling in some parts of his body. Since he got infected he has some black patches covering his legs entire legs and hands,kindly advice because i need some advice on how to help him out
Dear Iicious,
Dear Iicious,
it’s great that you are so concerned about your friend and want to help him.
The best thing to do is for him to discuss this with his doctor. Skin conditions are very common in people who are infected with HIV, and often, they are not dangerous. But it’s better to show the patches to his doctor and get a professional opinion. Same with the ARVs and the protein. It could be a side-effect, but without knowing which medication he is on, and more details on his history, it’s difficult to say anything more specific.
So please ask your friend to discuss these issues with his doctor.
can the HIV test bring out
can the HIV test bring out the rong results when tested eg indicate one is positive when he/she is negative
Hi Brenda,
Hi Brenda,
yes, in very few cases, this can happen. Especially with the rapid tests used at VCTs. That’s why all positive tests need to be confirmed with a second, more accurate lab test.
The virus works against the
The virus works against the health of an individual at every stage once its in the body.
The patient’s will to live long is the primary driving force against all behavioural dangers that may paralyse the healthy status of the patient.
Diet,Rest,Medication and abstainance from sex is the best way to go.
Protection by latex condoms is ok but one would rather abstain from sex for the sake of staying off further risks..
Sex is not as basic a need as life.
Hi Lilian,
Hi Lilian,
thanks for your input.
Thankfully, there are many things someone can do to avoid passing on the condom, like making sure that the viral load is low. So it’s not necessary for someone who is infected to miss out on sex. But yes, it’s really important to make sure you know the risks and how to protect yourself from any further risks.
if i test ma blood then its
if i test ma blood then its shows im infected n wen tested in confirmatory test kit its shows negative wat can b the problem or wich 1 should i trust
Hi Emmy,
Hi Emmy,
it’s possible that a rapid test, as used in many VCTs shows a positive result even though you are not infected. The chances are low, but it happens. Usually when someone tests positive with a rapid test, a second test is done, to confirm. This second test should ideally be a lab test, where your blood is tested more intensely. The results can take up to two weeks. This test (either ELISA or Western blot) is very accurate. So if you had one of those two done and it was negative, you can trust the negative test. If you did another test, I would strongly urge you to see a doctor and ask for a lab test.
Hope this helps!
From my knowledge about ARV,s
From my knowledge about ARV,s affecting the sight of a person, i think its true, we had a case of a lady who became partially blind because of the reaction of Nevirapine. Its true ARV’s have a side effect to other pple depending on your immunity system
Hi Tina,
Hi Tina,
the eye sight problems aren’t usually due to the ARVs (even though they can have lots of side effects), but to a common infection that affects HIV-positive people. The so-called opportunistic infections take advantage of the weak immune system of patients. Losing sight could be the result of an opportunistic infection called CMV, or cytomegalovirus, that attacks the cells of the eye.
after taking peps for 4 weeks
after taking peps for 4 weeks do you need test
Hi Win,
Hi Win,
great question!
Yes, even after you have been on PEP, you should get tested: once three months after the unprotected sex, and then again three months later. That way you know for sure that everything is okay!
Thanx for the good job
Thanx for the good job your doing..kindly help me understand the relationship between HIV and TB..,and would also like to hear if prayers can heal HIV positive person.
Hi Lydia,
Hi Lydia,
thanks for your praise!
HIV weakens your immune system, and makes it much easier for other infections to enter. TB is one of those so-called opportunistic infections that infect people with HIV.
As for prayer- faith can move mountains, but from a scientific perspective, there is no cure for HIV. The only thing an infected person can do it stay healthy and take medication.
your doing very good job .
your doing very good job ..kip it up and stay blessed..what makes young women(15-24) to have high chance(4times) of getting infected with hiv as compared to men of the same age..
Hi Lydia,
Hi Lydia,
another great question.
First of all, the risk of infection with vaginal sex is greater for the woman because of the way the virus attacks the body. For women, there are more ‘attack possibilities’ for the virus, than in men. Also, semen has a higher viral load than vaginal fluid. And, having an STD makes the risk of infection bigger. Unfortunately, women often have less signs and symptoms when they have an STD compared to men, so they are less likely to get treatment.
Culturally, sometimes women aren’t able to negotiate condom use, or women being unable to question a partner’s infidelity. And, in many African cultures, having more than one partner is not unusual, especially for a man, who can then infect several women. Sugar daddies can also play a role.
So you see, there are many reasons, and these are just a few.
HI
HI
THE CURE OF HIV IS ME N U.WITH OR WITHOUT INFECTION KNOW UA STATUS N MGT UA SELF ACCORDINGLY.
Hi Janet,
Hi Janet,
thanks for your comment!
ma husband passed on after an
ma husband passed on after an year igot tested it wad positeve. an year bf ahad ason and ibreast feed him for 2years he tested nigative how comes?
Hi there,
Hi there,
sounds like your son was very lucky.
It is possible that a child stays negative, even with positive parent’s and breastfeeding. It’s possible that your viral load was very low while you were breastfeeding, so he didn’t get infected.
Hi, what happens when both of
Hi, what happens when both of you are positive but one partner is on drugs and you engage sexually without condom?
Hi Ruth, that’s not such a
Hi Ruth, that’s not such a great idea. The partner who isn’t on ARVs could reinfect the other person with his or her version of the virus, making treatment more difficult. But it depends on their viral load, if it’s the man or the woman and a few other factors. So to be safe, use a condom!
I was exposed to someone who
I was exposed to someone who is HIV positive for 1year 8months and still tested negative, this has made me wonder and left me with a lot of an answered questions. How was this possible? several times she tricked me to have sex when I was drunk and she had her periods. I thank God for protecting me but still wonder how this could be possible, is it that some people can not be infected or could the virus be hiding in the body?
Hi Maxxy,
Hi Maxxy,
first of all, I do hope you got tested. If not, do it as soon as possible.
For the rest, it seems like you were lucky. It is indeed harder for a man to get infected by a woman than the other way around, and if her viral load was low (no AIDS yet, or on ARVs), then the chances are better for you. But I wouldn’t assume that you are immune- you were lucky!
Thank you very much for your
Thank you very much for your quick reply, Yes she takes septin and some multivitamin. I also forgave her and we are still together, however I strongly feel it is very challenging for discordant couples where one is positive because the positive one thinks that she well die so they keep talking about death even when you try to make them understand. I love her so much that I fear losing her even for death.
Hi Maxxy,
Hi Maxxy,
you are very welcome, that’s what we are here for!
You are absolutely right: the problems discordant couples have are often overlooked. And there are many challenges. Even more so than in ‘normal’ relationships, communication and complete honesty is crucial. And being supportive, both of you. You can be supportive by ensuring she takes her medications and gets regular check-ups to keep her healthy for as long as possible and be the person she trusts to talk to about her fears, but also needs to understand that things aren’t easy for you. But I am very glad to hear you love her. Good luck!
hi…is it 100% proven that
hi…is it 100% proven that condoms protect someone from gettin infected with aids
Hi Spencer,
Hi Spencer,
yes, in lab settings, it is proven that the virus can’t get through a latex condom.
However, as with all contraception methods, there is room for error: the condom could be old and brittle and burst, it could be damaged during opening and unrolling, it could slip, and so on. So yes, there could be cases of people who got infected even if they used a condom. That said, condoms will be the very best way to protect yourself from getting infected if you are having sex, especially with someone other than your partner, who is faithful and both of you have been tested.
i know for sure that PEP
i know for sure that PEP indeed works! There is a friend who had unprotected sex with a lady and he was so drunk so indeed they did it severally throughout the night! So the health professionals should ensure PEP is in constant supply in most places!
Hi Oguto,
Hi Oguto,
we agree! Thanks for your comment!
A circumcised penis behaves
A circumcised penis behaves very differently from the uncircumcised one during sex…The one and only condom I broke throughout my sexual life was when I was having sex with a man whose penis was uncircumcised.
The muscles of an uncircumcised penis actualy have a wabbling and wiggling effect during thrusting and that creates bubbles that also break the latex condom after afew minutes of thrusting.
Thats why Nyanza use condoms and its not helping them because they actually break these condoms..
Hi Lucy,
Hi Lucy,
fortunately, it’s a myth that uncircumcised penises break condoms. Whether a penis is circumcised or not won’t have an effect on the condom.
The people in Nyanza have a different problem. HIV is a number’s game. The more people are infected, the more they will be able to infect. The problem with HIV is that for long periods of time, there are no symptoms. So unless people get tested, they can pass on the virus for years without even knowing they are doing it.
People who sleep with Hiv
People who sleep with Hiv positive people get the virus.
But they will trick other new spouses that they are not infected so that they continue to infect them and ignore the damage they are causing.
Wheather you test negative,you may also be going through the window satage and its good to stop moving around and sleeping with new spouses.
Hi Lorna,
Hi Lorna,
that’s why it’s so important to always use condoms. Lower the risk!
if one has been tested +ve is
if one has been tested +ve is amust for him to start taking ARVs?
Hi Eve,
Hi Eve,
no, people generally don’t start ARVs immediately. But, the blood should be checked regularly, and once the CD4+ count (those immune cells that get attacked by the virus) falls below a certain level, one should start taking them. The level used to be 250, but now the World Health Organization says it’s better to start at 500.
And, no, it’s not a must. But
And, no, it’s not a must. But a person will survive much longer when on ARVs once he or she has reached the AIDS stage.
i had unprotected sex a few
i had unprotected sex a few times three months ago.now my lymph glands on the armpits keep swelling but subsyde when i take antibiotics only to reappear after one to two weeks.could it be the deodarant i use or should i be alarmed.i have no other symptoms
Hi Kim,
Hi Kim,
to end the speculation, I would suggest you get tested for HIV as soon as possible, and again in three months.
Swollen lymph nodes can be a symptom of many things from mild to serious, so if it doesn’t go away, you should also see a doctor about this. Just to be on the safe side!
Good luck and let us know how it works out!
can you get the virus when
can you get the virus when you have oral sex
Hi Iljue,
Hi Iljue,
there is a slight chance of getting the virus through oral sex. If vaginal fluid or semen comes into contact with wounds in the mouth of stomach, there is a chance of infection.
So it’s good to use a condom or dental dam with oral sex!
Let us embrase our spouces
Let us embrase our spouces and never forsake or leave them alone. I have supported my wife all through her pregnancy and now we have an 19 months old healthy, handsome and -ve baby boy. Its not easy tho but we are determined to live longest possible. By the look of her physique you not stop to admire my wife coz she looks wooow!…and i love her so much!
Hi Janjaman,
Hi Janjaman,
that is so good to hear! Keep up the love and stay healthy!
I have a sis who became
I have a sis who became paralyzed coz of hiv status….are there drugs to reverse this. it’s a year now since she walked
Hi Carolyne,
Hi Carolyne,
I am so sorry to hear that.
Unfortunately, neurological involvement like paralysis are very common in people with HIV/AIDS. The virus doesn’t attack nerves directly, but can have an impact on the nerve’s health. Sometimes, the complications that result of that can be treated with drugs or special therapy. Sometimes, they can’t. Only your sister’s doctor will be able to answer that question. And maybe she could see a physiotherapist? But there is no guarantee that this will help. Sorry.
Do you think HIV has changed
Do you think HIV has changed your love life or lifestyle?.
Hi Amos,
Hi Amos,
interesting question.
We asked a VCT counselor about this and he said ‘because of what I know about the virus and the disease, I have started to hate unprotected sex. Now, I only have sex with a condom; it couldn’t stand the risk if I didn’t wear one.’
had unprotected sex wth a gal
had unprotected sex wth a gal who was on her periods nd I had a bruise on my penis shaft.. th follwn day went fr testn nd it turned out that she was hiv pos nd me neg still.. went to th doctor nd i ws gvn lamivudine tabs fr th nxt 27days. is there more i cn do still?
Hi Odhis,
Hi Odhis,
I can imagine how anxious you must be right now.
But the only thing you can do is to take your pills for the full course and then go for testing in three months, and then again after three months.
And, of course, use condoms while having sex every time from now on until you are sure you are negative. And preferably, even afterwards, you shouldn’t have unprotected sex anymore. Good luck!
wen u r doing the test’ how
wen u r doing the test’ how do u know the result from a test kit
Hi Jess,
Hi Jess,
part of the VCT-process is to tell you how it works. Depending on where you go, you will actually be asked to look at your test results and see if you are positive or negative. It kind of works like a pregnancy-test, if you have ever taken one. The number of stripes will show your status.
@joyline..its true dat
@joyline..its true dat circumcision reduces HIV infection.In uncircumcised client,the glans penis is too susceptible to tear during sexual intercourse thus predisposing one to infection from infected partner.Removal of foreskin allows the glans penis to harden altho wid tym,thus lowering the chances.Stastics hav revealed dat HIV prevalence its high in areas where circumcision z underminrd(15.3% in nyanza.kenya).Its of grt importance to educate ppl back in our communities to get circumcised.
Qs :Why are females highly infected by HIV than men?
Hi Luke Mat,
Hi Luke Mat,
what you are saying is of course true, but circumcision will never be able to replace protection. So even a circumcised man should use a condom when having sex.
As to why women have higher infection rates than men, let me try to make it brief, even though this question has a long answer.
The risk of infection with vaginal sex is two to three times greater for the woman because of the way the virus attacks the body. A woman’s genital tract is a large space full of the cells the virus likes, and hence there are more ‘attack possibilities’ for the virus. Far more than in men. Also, semen has a higher viral load than vaginal fluid. Semen also stays in the vagina longer, adding infection possibilities.
Also, having an STD makes the risk of infection bigger. Unfortunately, women often have less signs and symptoms when they have an STD compared to men, so they are less likely to get treatment.
STDs increase the chance of the vaginal tissue tearing and bleeding. Offering an additional entry route for the virus.
Culture also plays a big role in this. Because of their roles in marriages and relationships, some women aren’t able to negotiate condom use. Or women are unable to question a partner’s infidelity. In cities, short-term relationships, flings and one-night stands are getting more common. Condoms are not always part of these relationships. And finally, violence against women can also be a reason for infection. With rape for example, the chances are higher, as part of the vaginal tissue will be wounded.
Economic difficulties might mean that a woman has to sell sex to make a living. So you see, there are many reasons, and these are just a few.
Have seen sameone taking
Have seen sameone taking septrin is that person on drugs or hiv
Hi Illian,
Hi Illian,
septrin can be used to treat a variety of different conditions, so no, just because you saw somebody taking it doesn’t mean they are drug users or on HIV.
Its sad that the virus
Its sad that the virus stormed into this world bt of ol,life must continue…my advice is…live collectively n responsibly…gudlife.
Hi Stanley,
Hi Stanley,
thanks for your comment!
Once. On arvs, adherence. Is
Once. On arvs, adherence. Is the best. Remedy.
Hi George,
Hi George,
yes, we agree! Thanks!
If ur positive avoid the
If ur positive avoid the following and you will not go through the RV’S
avoid alchohol
avoid stress
eat well
use a condom.
Hi Ruth, a healthy lifestyle
Hi Ruth, a healthy lifestyle alongside ARVs is the best way to go!
Hi ijst found out am infected
Hi ijst found out am infected,.hw does it mean am I going to die soon,n if not hw long can ilive
Hi Mike, please stay calm.
Hi Mike, please stay calm. Being infected doesn’t mean you will die soon. If you take care of yourself, live healthily and see a doctor regularly, and, once the time comes, take your medication correctly, you will be able to live positively for a long time. Please seek some help from an HIV-clinic or HIV counselor, or even a support group. It’s important that there are people who can answer all your questions and reassure you. Good luck
Guys don’t worry, of any
Guys don’t worry, of any deadly disease, and don’t worry of cash because your health is more important than money. Out of experience you can be healed of HIV and AIDS, within only 2month, you take drugs with 100% guarantee you will be healed, and if not you are refunded back all your money.this is done through referral, the test of whether you are healed will be done from the hospital of your choice. if you need more clarification and information kindly come back to my email [email protected] these medicine that one use are proved medically from physicians. several people are now free and they are now enjoying their life without any medication.
Other than the Berlin patient
Other than the Berlin patient, who went through a bone-marrow transplant, there are no cases of HIV having been healed. Please do not advertise such services; they don’t exist.
hi my friend is pregnant and
hi my friend is pregnant and she is +ve ..she is on abacavir and lomuvidine ..and is taking septrine too ..will she be able to hav a HIV neg babies ..she doesn’t want to tell de husband of it ..her cd4 count is 371..will she be still healthy after giving birth?what can she do to push de cd4?..i love my friend and would always want to advice her ..or should she do abortion? is it good to breastfeed even if ur on arvs? pliz advise
Hi Maggy,
Hi Maggy,
it’s good to have a friend like you who cares for people.
If your friend is on ARVs and septrine and her doctor’s know she is positive and can take precautions, there is a very very good chance that the baby will be HIV-negative. It’s really important though for her to speak to her doctor, they know best about her individual situation and can give good tips. Taking ARVs is working on her CD4+-count, so she needs to keep taking them, and live healthily. Breastfeeding is a risk for the baby; please discuss the best options with a doctor. One thing is important though: she needs to tell her husband. He has a right to know, and he needs to get tested. If he already is positive, they could reinfect each other. If not, he can still be prevented from getting HIV. If she is too scared, she can ask for the help of a VCT-counselor. They can assist in breaking the news.
I recently discover that my
I recently discover that my brother is HIV positive. what are the precoution i should take to avoid being infected too…
Hi Mildred,
Hi Mildred,
there is little chance of getting infected from your brother. As you are not having sex with him, the only thing you need to watch out for is blood. If he cuts himself or has an injury, wear latex gloves when helping him. There is no risk of infection with hugging, sharing bathrooms, cutlery or eating off the same plate. So don’t worry, you are very unlikely to be at risk. But please be there for your brother- this might be a difficult time for him.
thanks so much for de
thanks so much for de wonderful advice ..but i my friend told me that de doctor has told her that when she gets de babie she should breastfeed for six months exclusive coz the milk is of greater help to the baby for stronger immunity ..is it true that opportunistic disease can take advantage after giving birth ..does giving birth lower de cd4 count ..thanks n waiting to hear from you…can u suggest abortion i
Hi Maggy,
Hi Maggy,
the breastfeeding is a tricky one. Yes, it’s true that breast milk has the highest value for a baby. Even if the viral load is very low and the mother is on ARVs, there is a risk for the baby involved. However, the World Health Organization recently changed its recommendations and now tells HIV-positive mothers to breastfeed for the first six months. It’s a choice your friend has to make, taking into account the recommendations from her doctor. Opportunistic diseases can always take advantage, not just after birth. That’s why it’s important to keep the CD4+ count up and life as healthily as possible. That said, it’s true that the CD4+ count drops temporarily after giving birth. It usually goes back up after a while. But, if that count falls below a level of about 200 cells/mm3, then she could be more at risk of opportunistic infections. As for abortion, that is a very personal decisions. A HIV-infection shouldn’t be a reason for abortion. If all precautions are taken, there is a very good chance that the baby will be healthy. We hope this helps!
How many years does it take
How many years does it take to develop into aids
Hi Diana,
Hi Diana,
it takes on average 8 to 10 years from infection with HIV to AIDS. For some people it take longer, in in others, it starts earlier.
Am very much disturb in mind
Am very much disturb in mind,i had a girlfriend and most of the time we had sex almost daily without the condom and i was really enjoying fucking her but the problem is that i left her for another chick who was very hot than her in sex and we did the same thing together so i went to the vct for test and am not found with the hiv/aids but i fear for my life,kindly advice me over this issue.
Hi James,
Hi James,
I’m a bit confused- is your girlfriend or your ex-girlfriend HIV-positive? Only if one of them was infected could you have gotten the disease. Anyway, the tests are reliable, so you you fear that you are HIV-positive, keep using condoms every time you have sex for the next three months and then get tested again. If you are negative, then you have nothing to fear. But please, in the future, if you have sex with someone who is HIV positive or sleeping with a partner who may not be faithful, use condoms.
am wondering what happen to
am wondering what happen to people when they get accident and get in contact with infected blood and they are hurt.
Hi Roz,
Hi Roz,
unfortunately, this can happen. When two people’s blood get in contact and one of them is infected, the other one can get infected, too.
This is why it’s important to wear latex gloves, whenever you might get in contact with blood. So if someone has an accident, and you help them- wear gloves.
this maggy am really greatful
this maggy am really greatful for ur help ..when one is on arvs and stops for sometimes does it affect de cd4.?after giving birth what kind of. food would you recommend for de mother ..when on arvs and your pregnant should one avoid intake of food such as red meat? is it true that some arvs can cause side effects which leads to miscarriage ?
Hello again Maggy,
Hello again Maggy,
ARVs need to be taken consistently. If someone stops taking them for a while, the viral load will go up and the CD4+-count will go down. So it’s not advisable to start and stop. About the foods, your friend should best ask her doctor. Depending on which combination of ARVs she is on, some foods might be best taken only a while after the medication or not at all. Regarding the miscarriages, there is not sufficient scientific data to rule out prove that ARVs can cause miscarriage, so it’s not certain either way.
wht hapens whn one tests
wht hapens whn one tests positive and negative at the same time.
Hi Scovila, this happens
Hi Scovila, this happens sometimes. Usually, when you go to a VCT and test positive, a second test is done for confirmation. If that one is negative, there could have been something wrong with either test. Which is why it is always advisable to have a blood test other than the rapid test done, as they are even more reliable. So if that happened to you or someone you know, go to a doctor or hospital and request a lab-test (ELISA or Western blot) for HIV. Good luck
My partner got injected with
My partner got injected with a needle which was already used.the same night we had unprotected sex,after 2months he tested positive n I am negative.the medics are saying the virus had not yet travelled to the sperms.i am still confused because I am not sure of my status,though this the 2nd month still negative?n how can we get a child in such a situation pliz help.
Hi Wayne,
Hi Wayne,
please stop worrying. It’s a good sign that you are still negative in the second month. You should get tested in a month again and then three months later. If both tests are negative, you are okay. Also, it is very possible not to get infected if you have unprotected sex with someone who is infected once. Getting infected depends on many factors, like the number of viruses in the infected person’s body. Regarding a child, please read what our sex expert Valentine has to say about this here: http://lovematters.co.ke/news/making-baby-when-hiv-positive Good luck!
Can you get a HIV infection
Can you get a HIV infection thro pre-ejaculation fluid.
Hi Ann,
Hi Ann,
that’s a very good question, and not easy to answer with a clear yes or no. Pre-ejaculate can contain the virus, so yes, there is a risk. But the risk is rather small because there usually isn’t a lot of pre-cum, and the amount of viruses in there is usually small. So it’s difficult to answer with a clear yes or no. To be on the safe side, use condoms, then you don’t have to worry about it!
Example am married and i
Example am married and i tested hiv+ n my husband refused to go for test and am already on drugs is there any risk on my side having sex with him without protection
Hi Caro, that isn’t a very
Hi Caro, that isn’t a very responsible thing to do on your husband’s side. He should really get tested, because if he still is HIV negative, then he can still avoid getting infected. And yes, there could also be a risk for you if your husband is HIV positive. You could get reinfected with his type of the HI-virus, which can make it more difficult for the drugs to work, and essentially, could lead to you getting AIDS faster.
So please, do try to convince
So please, do try to convince your husband to get tested. And if he still refuses, insist on using condoms every time you have sex.
Thanx for your informative n
Thanx for your informative n timely advice. I feel wth ua help we shall have less infections. Am an activist n educator/counsellor in the field
Dear Weps, thank you for your
Dear Weps, thank you for your kind words! You make us feel proud!
I was tested 2010 i was
I was tested 2010 i was negative since then av neva slept with another man xcept my husband now am pregnant and i tested hiv positive my cd4 is 902 i started with septrin and zidovudine. So am very sure it’s my husband who bought it in the house and he refused to get tested… Wat am surposd to do now ??
Caro dear, I am so sorry! I
Caro dear, I am so sorry! I still think it’s very irresponsible of your husband to refuse to get tested. Does he know about your status? If he does, that should at least make it an easier decision for you to use condoms when you are having sex. Does he give you a reason for his refusal?
The positive thing is that you learned about your status now, as opposed to later on in your pregnancy. Your CD4 count is very good and you are already on ARVs, so the baby will have a very low risk of getting infected.
Yeah he knows my status bt he
Yeah he knows my status bt he refused to accept it he says he’s very sure we ar negative even though i tested postv… This makes my marriage lyf very difficult but i still believe in God.. In God nothing impossible i av faith… About my unborn bby wat can u say abt his status
Hi Caro, that status of the
Hi Caro, that status of the baby can only be determined six months after it is born. Please ask your doctor about what you can do to make sure baby stays negative, but seeing that you are on ARVs with such a high CD4 count seems to be that your doctor is already taking care of this. If you can, find a way to pressure your husband to get a test. For example, you could tell him that you won’t have sex with him without a condom until he gets tested. Obviously, you should only do this if it is safe for you and you won’t have to fear any form of punishment from him. What you can also do is go back to the VCT centre and talk to a counselor of tips on how to convince your husband to come. Counselors have great tips for situations like this. But again, your safety comes first, so please be careful.
I had sex with a lady who’s
I had sex with a lady who’s hiv positive lyk one month back and i used am i alredy inffected?
Hi Mkubwa,
Hi Mkubwa,
if you used a condom, you have little to worry about. Get tested in two months and then again after another three months. The same is true for if you didn’t use a condom. Get tested twice over the next five months to figure out if you have been infected. You need to wait a bit to get tested, because of the window period. That means that if you are infected, it takes your body time to make enough antibodies for the test to pick up. There is no other way to find out if you have been infected, so please get tested. Also, please use condoms from now on when you are having sex. Good luck
i had sex with a gal who i
i had sex with a gal who i discovered later that she was hiv positive. i used a condom to the completion and it didnot break am i safe pliz?
Hi Kiongozi, most likely, you
Hi Kiongozi, most likely, you are safe. Well done on the condom! Nevertheless, you should get tested three months and six months after you had sex with her- just to be on the safe side. All the best.
HI THANKS ALOT FOR INFORMING
HI THANKS ALOT FOR INFORMING US,WHATS THE POSSIBILITY OF A CHILD BEING INFECTED IF HE WAS BREASTFEEDING, I .E THE MUM HAS JUST REALISED THAT SHE HAD UNPROTECTED SEX WTH A HIV+ MAN, BUT SHE IMMIDIETLY STOPED BREASTFEEDING. THE MUM HAS BEEN DATING HIM 4 ATLEAST 2MONTHS. IS THE SON INFECTED
Hi Nelly, this is a tricky
Hi Nelly, this is a tricky question. The first and easier one should be about the mother- is she infected? Unfortunately, it takes a while for the body to make enough antibodies to show up in a test, so she needs to get tested 3 months and 6 months after the unprotected sex. If she is negative, her child will be negative. If she is positive though, there is the chance that she has passed it on. There aren’t many viruses in breastmilk, but because baby’s feed often, there is a risk. The tricky thing with testing babies is that they can have some of their mum’s antibodies in them, especially if the mum was already positive during the pregnancy. So the son needs to be tested, too, but it can take even longer to get a reliable results. The mum should discuss this with a doctor she trusts. I hope all goes well for mum and baby.
There is believe that hiv is
There is believe that hiv is cured by taking camel’s milk and its meat,how far is it true?
Hi Abdiwahab, unfortunately,
Hi Abdiwahab, unfortunately, this is not confirmed. There are some reports that claim that camel’s milk could cure HIV amongst other diseases, but there are no scientific studies to back this up. So please use a condom- that’s far more efficient and safe than trying to cure the disease by drinking camel’s milk.
as for those who are infected
as for those who are infected should follow doctor’s advice coz that is not the end of life,,,and for those who are not infected should abstain so as to lower the hiv infection.thankz to you all…..
Hi Mike,
Hi Mike,
generally, you are right, an infection doesn’t have to be the end of one’s life. Theoretically. So by living healthily, taking medication and taking good care of the body, life can be prolonged significantly. But even with that, the life expectancy of PLWHA is shorter than of those who aren’t infected. And abstinence works, but so do condoms and only having unprotected sex with a faithful, uninfected partner.
Let’s then encourage others
Let’s then encourage others to go for the test…..the sooner the better.
.
Haron Doc, we couldn’t agree
Haron Doc, we couldn’t agree more!
i have been exposed to sexual
i have been exposed to sexual intercourse with an HIV positive person 3 weeks ago.i went ahead and did the elisa test and ma results were negative.should i have escaped?
Hello Lyn, unfortunately, you
Hello Lyn, unfortunately, you will have to wait a bit longer to be sure. Elisa is an antibody test and you need to wait at least three months for your body to make enough antibodies to detect the virus. Good luck.
have heard sex severally with
have heard sex severally with ma husband n he travelled abroad,when he came back he insisted that we have unprotected sex claiming that hes ma husband n he needs kids.Later on i heard that ma man is dangerous n that he doesnt pass any skirt.wot can i do?am totally stressed up.
Hi Sahron, please go to a
Hi Sahron, please go to a couple’s VCT session with your husband. If you are in Nairobi, try Liverpool VCT. Tell your husband that you only want to have sex with him once you know you are o free of HIV. Good luck!
can resent infected person
can resent infected person infect the other person? as in I got infect today and after 1week I spend with non infected person…will i infect her too??
Hi Kevo, unfortunately, yes,
Hi Kevo, unfortunately, yes, this is possible. In fact, the risk of infecting another person just after you got infected is very high, because there are many viruses in your body at that moment. The first few weeks are therefore high risk times for passing on the virus. Later on, the risk gets much lower, and only once a person has come to the AIDS stage, the risk is getting much higher again. So please, use condoms all the time when having sex, they can really save your life!
Hi why do u get dat infected
Hi why do u get dat infected men die early than infected women
Hi Sly, that’s an interesting
Hi Sly, that’s an interesting question. We did some research for you and found out that sometimes, HIV positive men indeed die earlier than women, but the researchers suggest that that had not much to do which the HIV itself, but also with other factors. For example, men often find out about their infection later than women, and so they start taking medication later. That means the drugs are less effective and so they life shorter. Also, it seems to men are more likely to make mistakes with taking their pills, or not showing up to their doctors appointments for a while. All those could be reasons. But scientists are still looking into it, and there is not enough evidence to conclude that men really die younger.
What are the chances of
What are the chances of getting infected with HIV virus if you have unprotected sex with an infected person just once? Can an immediate cold bath immediately after such sex also reduce your chances of being infected?
Hi Jose it’s difficult to
Hi Jose it’s difficult to pin down the chances. For example, anal sex has a higher risk than vaginal sex. Women get more easily infected than men. The infected persons viral load plays a big role- the infection risk is mushy higher with a high viral load. Also, having untreated STDs increase the risk. A lack of lubrication, or very forceful sex, too. All these and other factors determine the risk, and you can’t really say what the chances are. But, for sure, taking a cold bath won’t reduce your chances. Only post-exposure prophylaxis, a form of ARVs, can, but you need to start to take them within 74 hours. Does this help?
What are the chances of
What are the chances of getting infected with HIV virus if you have unprotected sex with an infected person just once? Can an immediate cold bath immediately after such sex also reduce your chances of being infected?
Guys,HIV testing has really
Guys,HIV testing has really advanced,it take 21-28 days for antibody to appear…you can know your status in just weeks after infection..so,their are so many test which can detect HIV earlier than b4,combo test,which is a combine test for P24+Ab+Ag,can detect HIV earlier than ever b4,which is recomended by WHO,can detect HIV earlier than 4 week,if you think your exposed and you want 2 know your status aerlier,dont wait 4 six month as am reading here,6 month test is outdated guys,even here in kenya,the protol of HIV testing was 6 month,but now iys 3 month,n its conclusive…go ask any legal doctor and will tell you this…am waiting 2 see who is saying am lieng..
Hello Mike, thanks for your
Hello Mike, thanks for your elaborate comments. As you can read in the article above, we ask people to keep in mind that it may take three months for a test to be conclusive. We recommend this because the tests used at the most common testing facilities, VCTs, use rapid tests. And, as you explain, they test for antibodies, not the virus itself. As it takes three to four weeks for antibodies to be produced, and a bit more time for sufficient amount to be present in the blood and as there can be individual differences, three months is the recommended waiting time for VCT testing. We also recommend another test after three more months, to rule out any error. We don’t day anywhere that you need to wait a total of six months for the first tests. We just recommend two tests over a six month period, which is in line with most facilities testing protocols. We also don’t focus on the more expensive lab tests here, because. VCT is the most accessible and affordable, and they are both rather sensitive and specific tests. You will also notice though that we advise people to go for the more elaborate lab tests in case they test positive at a VCT. Does this make sense?
Answer to ken is a wrong
Answer to ken is a wrong answer,that someone wuth HIV without medication will die afte 6-20month..?that a naked lie,people live with these viruses for upto 12years without medication..where did you do your research,or am reading here your telling people 2 test after 6month,how can he test and eventualy he is going 2 die after 6month..please read acrefull what your posting and stop confusing people..HIV,can be detected as early a 4 weeks,your 6 month is outdated,since 2004,so where the hell do you find your reseach..?am always on the net to read more about HIV/AIDS progress,but what am reading here,some are lies…if WHO is saying 6 week is conclusive if your test was a combo test(P24+Ag+Ab)ans am reading here people are asking you how long can it take 2 know if someone if infected,GUYs,it take 4-6weeks,and 12weeks(84dats) is a conclusive(or 3month)please you shod learn more about HIV…HIV dont hide in the body,it can be detected as early as 11days,by PCR/RNA DNA,i have not read anywhere telling people HIV testing has really advanced..you are talkin of 90s here,please,read more about,am following everything from CDC and WHO,so yours am somehow doubting…its because these people dont read more about HIV…challage me..
Hello Mike, please read the
Hello Mike, please read the reply to Ken again, and you will see we are on the same page. What we said there was that in the last stage of HIV infection, which is called AIDS, who is not on antiretroviral drugs, will die within 6-20 months. Yes, there are two stages of infection before, which can last up to 12 years, on average 8. But once somebody has progressed to AIDS, which means a low CD4+count and a high viral load, as well as the presence of opportunistic infections, the prognosis isn’t too good. We hope this makes sense to you.
Once somebody is infected
Once somebody is infected with HIV,it take atleast 21-27days for antibody to form,and 6-12weeks for antigen to be detected..so,your doing a great Job,but your really behind in some answers am reading here,WHO,recomends ia 12 mark as conclusive,where did you read yours of 6 month..?12weeks or 3 month is a conclusive according to HIV testing and accurate results..with this advanced tecnologies,with all blood screening,that means if we have 2 wait for 6month for conclusion,then blood donors could really infect people,here in kenya we have all test recomended by WHO,and CDC,like PCR/RNA DNA,ELISA AND COMBO(P24+Ab+Ag)these test are accurate and combo test can detect 95% in just 21days..hope i have adressed it without making anybody mad,we are here 2 inform our people more about HIV..and please stop telling people that HIV kills,how do you expect someone who is already infected to react after reading from you that when you have HIV you will die,please,encourage people,give them hope,people under medication can live a healthy and normal live,am reading some comments here and am really wondering whats wrong with you guys…these ARVs is a miracle,is a hope to the world,HIV dont kill unless you dont take madication..i read an article last week from WHO,that half of the people infected with the virus dont know if they are infected,so if someone is living with the virus for over 6 years without medication,and they are doing there normal activities,why are you telling people they will die..even cancer got no cure,diabitis and many more..so,please you need to teach yourself more about HIV,your really behind knowledge…
Hi Mike, I think the testing
Hi Mike, I think the testing issue has been dealt with in your first comment.
I read a qestion here that
I read a qestion here that someone had unprotected sex with a HIV+ partner,yes,its a high risk activity,but not “absolute risk”,you can have uprotected sex with someone who is infected and turn out that your not infected with the virus..but that not a gud idea to advise people to take risk,its better to use a condom…am not a doctor but i know more about AIDS…PLEASE am sorie…because your really doing a great job but you should learn more about HIV/AIDS..
Hello again, Mike, please
Hello again, Mike, please read through the answer again. We said there is no way of calculating the chances, as different activities hold different risks (anal sex more than vaginal sex, women more at risk than men, untreated STDs, violent sex, lack of lubrication, viral load etc.). And of course you are right, using condoms is essential in decreasing the risk.
Thanks,yes,its true,your
Thanks,yes,its true,your doing a great job anyway,many people here in kenya dont know more about HIV/AIDS…yes,all these test which are done at vct,they test antibody,not the virus,but PCR/RNA DNA test the virus itself..P24+Ab+Ag,its a 4th generation,it test both antibody+antigen,and its very accurate,it can detect 95% of the infectin in just 21 days…which is conclusive after 12weeks(84days)or 3month,..beleive me,if some has a negative test at 40days,thats a gud indicator,that yu dont have the virus,its very unlikely for the test to change after 90days…many people here in kenya dont know more about these different test available local…please yu shud keep on telling people these test,because if someone is exposed,he/she passes through a very hard time,tellinh her/him to wait for 6 month,can make them commit suicide,yu shud tell them that there are some test which can ease there mind by testing it at early stage..but guys yu are really doing what nobody has thought ever before to do,anly western world have such sites where people ask many qestion concerning there sexual behaviour…you shud also put a forum on facebook where yu answer qestions about HIV,many people are living with stress but they dont know where or who to ask..try it on facebook and yu will see many people asking many qestions…gud luck guys..
Hi Mike, from your experience
Hi Mike, from your experience, what do these tests cost in Kenya? And please feel free to join our Facebook group, the button is right here on our homepage. We have a very engaged community there. Thanks for your input.
Hi, is it possible to get
Hi, is it possible to get infected with hiv virus through handjob?
Hi Simon, that’s very
Hi Simon, that’s very unlikely. Even if the person giving you a handjob is HIV positive and happens to bleed on their hand, the virus can’t enter your body through skin. So you have nothing to worry about. For all other activities, it’s best to wear a condom to reduce the risk of infection with HIV or other STDs.
Thanks..
Thanks..
The 4th generation which some people call it(duo test,combo test)it can cost you from 1500-2000 shillings,at many private hospitals you can have this kind of test,pathcare kenya is the leading pathologist in the region…
Next is DNA-PCR
you can have this test at many provincial government hospitals,its a bit costy,it mainly used to screen blood of baby born by HIV positive mothers,its a very sinsitive and most accurate test,but,many goverment hospitals here in kenya dont do screening of adults,because its a somehow expensive..it can cost you upto 8000 shillings,…
NB-but the 4th generation test,which is a combined test,is more available in the market,and it can detect,more than 95% of the viruses in just 21 days…
Mike, that was so educative.
Mike, that was so educative. Living positively is possible, i have lived for 13 years now and very healthy you would not know i am HIV+, its just a matter of accepting your status, careful living , proper feeding and exercise, and most importantly taking your medication as required.
Please send me your facebook
Please send me your facebook or homepage group,that we can make a gud conversation…
Hi Mike, here is the link:
Hi Mike, here is the link:
https://www.facebook.com/LoveMattersAfrica
thanks for that informative
thanks for that informative reply, continue the good work coz there are alot of hiv myths
Thanks Simon, we will do our
Thanks Simon, we will do our very best!
Hey,i had an exposure last yr
Hey,i had an exposure last yr,on 28december,it was unprotected sex with a girl,i didnt know her status until we went for a test on 2nd dis yr and she turned out 2 be positive,i had several unprotected encounters with her,am scared to test,because i knw am infected,is there any test which can tell if am infected below 10days,because i had that these fingerprick test detect hiv from 3month,and i think i cant wait for 3 month,i fill like dieng,can i know if am infected,where and wat kind of test can i do,?because i had a high risk exposure..am 29trs old
Dear Amir, unfortunately, if
Dear Amir, unfortunately, if you want to take a rapid test, you will need to wait three months to get an accurate result. Going to a hospital lab you can get good results a bit earlier, but you will need to pay for these kinds of tests. But you ℅ need to get tested to make sure if you really are infected. There is no way of telling yet if you really are infected. Even if you had sex with the woman several times, there is still a chance that you aren’t infected. So please try to relax until then. Good luck!
I was diagnized HIV Positive
I was diagnized HIV Positive 2 weeks ago out of my request, i had mouth infection.i have moved on but i need to take my wife for the same, i fear the backlash,how should i handle it?
Hi Neyo,
Hi Neyo,
honesty is the way to go. Be gentle and honest and give her time. This will come as a shock to her, and all kinds of reactions are possible. I would suggest you go to a VCT together. LVCT in Nairobi for example has special couple’s counseling sessions, and they can help you bring over the message in a gentle way. And then, give her some time. She may be angry or sad or furious. All that is normal, because she needs time to adjust to the diagnosis. You can try to be supportive. Good luck!
do you think a HIV positive
do you think a HIV positive doctor can inject a patient with his blood with intention of infecting her if she is a sleep
Hi Terrr, that’s a bit of a
Hi Terrr, that’s a bit of a freaky idea. Technically, yes, this would be possible, if the patient has a bleeding wound and infected blood with a high viral count of the doctor is added, or indeed is injected with the blood into the bloodstream. But please, do tell me, where does this scary vision come from?
am on meds can i infect
am on meds can i infect anybody if we have sex without protection
Hi Carol, this is not an easy
Hi Carol, this is not an easy yes or no answer. It depends. If you are on meds and your viral load is very low, the the chances of infecting someone else are low. If your viral count is high, on the other hand, the risk of infection is much higher. Also, if your partner has an untreated STD, or another wound, for example, the risk is higher again. So it’s best to always use protection, because it’s very difficult to determine how high or low the risk is. Does this help?
can someone who has had sex
can someone who has had sex with someone infected with HIV AND STDs contract the std and fail to contract HIV
?
Hi Legilishio, yes, this is
Hi Legilishio, yes, this is possible. If the person has a low viral count, then it’s possible. By the way, when you have an untreated STD, the risk of infection for you is higher. Does this help?
i spt wdh a gal who positive
i spt wdh a gal who positive n noticed the same day 4we went in a vct .i explaind wat happnd i had unsave sex i was givn some drug to take in 1 month.i mssd i took 2drugs in the mrng insted of 1 afta 1 wik i realised the right dosage .hlp am i save i hv returnd in a vct help
kindly advice people to put
kindly advice people to put up one name as there is alot of stigma still out there….i believe some have unknowingly given their birth names that can be traced to their facebook/whatsapp/twitter or google accounts.All in all good work admin.
Hi Kamau,
Hi Kamau,
users don’t need to use their names at all. By leaving the name box blank, it will be anonymous.
But, we will make sure to let people know!
Thanks for your comment.
Thax so much 4 d information.
Thax so much 4 d information. I hadso many qns 2 ask but almost all are ansd
Hi there, we are so glad to
Hi there, we are so glad to hear that. If you have any more questions, please feel free to ask, and we will do our best to answer them.
you are doing what i call a
you are doing what i call a ‘ministry’ for the children of God. Keep it up
Thank you for your advice,now
Thank you for your advice,now my problem is my husband is HIV positive and am negative,we use condoms every time and it is now three years but after sex i feel stomach pain that makes me to fear sex.how can i do? i love my husband that i can not compere him to any man in the world
Hi Adelaide,
Hi Adelaide,
great that you use condoms every time, keep it up!
it could be that because of the stomach pains, and anticipating them, you are not relaxed during sex, which will then cause the stomach pains. I doubt that they are related to your husband’s HIV. However, if the problem persists, it might be a good idea to discuss it with a doctor. But for now, try to relax!
I am liked that pg Tell me
I am liked that pg Tell me more about discordant..
Hi John,
Hi John,
what would you like to know, we can tell you lots about discordant couples.
hi, am dating alady en b4 we
hi, am dating alady en b4 we had sex we tested en da results were neg bt b4 we tested sh took sam drugs knwn as COSATRIM can dat b da reason bhide her negativity coz we tested both neg hmm am worried men!!!!!!
Hi there,
Hi there,
no, taking medication will not affect the result of the test.
The test looks for antibodies, which will be present in the body, even if taking ARVs. So stop worrying, it’s all good!
hi, am dating alady en b4 we
hi, am dating alady en b4 we had sex we tested en da results were neg bt b4 we tested sh took sam drugs knwn as COSATRIM can dat b da reason bhide her negativity coz we tested both neg hmm am worried men!!!!!!
hi, am dating alady en b4 we
hi, am dating alady en b4 we had sex we tested en da results were neg bt b4 we tested sh took sam drugs knwn as COSATRIM can dat b da reason bhide her negativity coz we tested both neg hmm am worried men!!!!!!
hi, am dating alady en b4 we
hi, am dating alady en b4 we had sex we tested en da results were neg bt b4 we tested sh took sam drugs knwn as COSATRIM can dat b da reason bhide her negativity coz we tested both neg hmm am worried men!!!!!!
Wat is the normal CD count
Wat is the normal CD count
Hi Mark,
Hi Mark,
a normal normal CD4 count can range from 500 cells/mm3 to 1,000 cells/mm3.
my patner is hiv positive and
my patner is hiv positive and she is expecting we’ve taken most of the precautions to avoid mother to child transmission but what am not sure of is breastfeeding . the doctors insist that breasfeeding is completly safe so long as it is done correctly that is breasfeeding for 6months without addition of any foreign solid or liquid food to the baby.is that true??
Hi Ozone,
Hi Ozone,
that’s a very good question.
It’s true that breastfeeding can pose a risk to the baby, because breastmilk does contain minimal amounts of the virus. Generally, not enough to infect a baby, but because breastfeeeding happens several times a day over several months, there is a risk. However, the scientific community has found that breastfeeding exclusively for six months outweighs the risks of infection. And especially if the woman is under medical supervision, it is relatively safe. Not breastfeeding is not good for the child, because it won’t get protection from other diseases, and store-bought formula is not as nutritional as breastmilk. Yes please do stick to the recommendations from your doctor. Good luck with everything!
hi i tested +ve in 2004.i
hi i tested +ve in 2004.i have been on septrim since 2012.i fear taking ARV’s bcoz of the side effects.neither ave i gone for a CD4 test.i have since developed a persistent skin problem could it be bcoz my CD4 has gone down.What could b the
probable CD4 count by now pliz help so that i know the action to take
Hi there,
Hi there,
sorry to be harsh, but you do not what the side effect of not having ARVs is, don’t you? Once you progress to the AIDS stage of HIV-infection, chances are high that you only have around two years to live. With ARVs, theses chances will multiply. Yes, you are right, ARVs have side-effects, but look at what they are giving you in return- a healthier, longer, life. Your skin problem could be an indication of a low CD4 count, or unrelated. It’s not possible to know without seeing it.
The actions you should take is to see s a doctor and see what your CD4+count is. I understand that it is scary, but it is in your best interest. If you take medications and take good care of yourself, you will feel better and you can stop worrying about what you worry about right now. So please, go to see a doctor you trust. Let us know how it goes!
am afraid if i have been
am afraid if i have been affected. i discovered that i produce light green fluid inside ma virgina sometimes i feel urge of iching. last year i went to hospital to examine my urine the doctor said i have an inffection
Hi Sally,
Hi Sally,
why don’t you firstly go to a VCT to get tested for HIV, and then go to see another doctor about possible STDs (you can of course also just see one doctor for both). It sounds more like you have an STD other than HIV. Even the urinary tract infection can cause discharge and itching. Please get checked again. Good luck!
i forgot to tell you that i
i forgot to tell you that i was told by doctor i have urine inffection please advice
Great advice use protection
Great advice use protection always.
Hi Eustance,
Hi Eustance,
thank you! And yes, always use protection!
does circumcision truly
does circumcision truly reduce the risk of being infected when one does sex with a reactive person??
Hi Faith,
Hi Faith,
great question.
Yes, studies have shown that circumcision can reduce the risk of transmission in areas where HIV-infection is high.
However, circumcision doesn’t fully reduce the risk, so circumcision alone isn’t a good prevention method. Even when circumcised, a person should still wear a condom for optimal protection.
WHAT ARE THE BOOSTERS TO THE
WHAT ARE THE BOOSTERS TO THE SPREAD OF HIV
Hi Emmanuel,
Hi Emmanuel,
the number one reason for the spread of HIV is unprotected sex. Condoms can prevent infection, but only if they are used consistently.
Another reason is the fact that most people won’t get symptoms for many years, so unless they get tested, they don’t know that they are infected. And then, if they have unprotected sex, they can pass the virus on.
Other reasons include that people travel much more than they did a few decades ago- so the virus was spread around the world much quicker.
There are many more reasons, but especially the first two are the main causes.
does rushes that develop
does rushes that develop over the body which are itching a sign of re-infection?
Hi JMO,
Hi JMO,
it could be a sign of re-infection. It could also be the sign of an opportunistic infection. If you are HIV positive and you have developed a rash, please go see a doctor as soon as possible. Good luck!
How long can HIV patient take
How long can HIV patient take before the use of ARVs? And why can somebody be tested positive and nxt time be found negative
Hi Richaed,
Hi Richaed,
that depends, and the time can differ from patient to patient. When you start taking ARVs depends on your CD4+-count. CD4+-cells are the cells of your immune system that fight infections. A doctor can determine the amount of cells an HIV-positive person has, and based on this make a decision to prescribe ARVs.
As for being tested positive and then negative, that’s quite unusual, but it can happen. HIV-tests are very specific, and sometimes, they come out positive, even when the person is not infected. When a test is positive, it’s recommended to do a second test, preferably a lab test as opposed to a quick-test, that is more accurate and will give a more reliable result.
can one get HIV AIDS BY
can one get HIV AIDS BY HAVING unprotected sex sex with a HIV negative person?
Hi Monica,
Hi Monica,
no, you can’t. In order to get infected by your sex partner, he or she must be HIV-positive. Imagine the flu. Somebody can only infect others with the flu if they themselves have it. Is this more clear?
Hi, my girlfriend would like
Hi, my girlfriend would like us to have a baby.whats the safest way of going about it without seroconverting ?
Hi there,
Hi there,
I am assuming only one of you is HIV-positive? It would be good to know if it’s you or your girlfriend- that makes the reply a bit easier.
For now, it’s important to discuss things with your doctor first. He or she knows you and your history and can give the best advice.
Generally, with preparation like taking ARVs to get the viral load as low as possible and exact calculations for ovulation to avoid too much exposure are ways to go. There is also other ways, like sperm washing. But again, it’s best to discuss things with your doctor, as many factors play a role with healthy conception. Also see what our expert Valentine has to say to this: https://lovematters.co.ke/news/making-baby-when-hiv-positive
Hi, thanks for your reponse,
Hi, thanks for your reponse, my girlfriend was diagnosed in 2005 and has been on ARVs for the last three years.
Hi there,
Hi there,
the fact that your girlfriend is the one who is infected is actually to your advantage. It is more difficult for a man to get infected when having unprotected sex with a woman who is HIV positive than the other way around.
Have a chat with her doctor, the two of you together, to discuss the best possibilities for you.
Good luck!
Hi, thanks again,she is
Hi, thanks again,she is stressed on having the best possibility for all of us.We shall seek to have a chat with her doctor.
Trying to have a baby when
Trying to have a baby when you are HIV-positive can be very stressful. But with all precautions in place, there is a very good chance you will have a healthy baby!
1.can HIV/AIDS symptoms be
1.can HIV/AIDS symptoms be seen in one to four weeks and what are the initial ones that comes normally.2. If you have unprotected sex with an infected person how long can you take to prevent the virus from getting the negative paxon
1.can HIV/AIDS symptoms be
1.can HIV/AIDS symptoms be seen in one to four weeks and what are the initial ones that comes normally.2. If you have unprotected sex with an infected person how long can you take to prevent the virus from getting the negative paxon
Hi Patrick,
Hi Patrick,
1. many people don’t have symptoms in the first 5 to 10 years following HIV infection. Some people have flu-like symptoms 1 to 3 weeks after they first get infected, but those go away again pretty quickly.
2. what you can do is get post-exposure prophylaxis within 72 hours after having unprotected sex. It’s a form of ARVs that can help you prevent getting infected. You need to see a doctor for this. It’s also good to keep in mind that not every sexual contact with someone who is infected will lead to HIV. So even if you had unprotected sex and it’s past the first 72 hours, don’t stress too much. Wait six weeks and get tested. Then wait another six and get tested again.
Does this help?
which are some recommended
which are some recommended meal in the diet
which are some recommended
which are some recommended meal in the diet
Hi Ronald,
Hi Ronald,
It’s important to eat a balanced diet. That means lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, lots of water, lean meat and carbohydrates, such as rice or ugali. Small, regular meals can help with the medication is giving you an upset stomach.
Depending on which combination of ARVs someone is taking, there may be some dietary restrictions as well. It’s best to ask your doctor about it.
Hi doctor how do the how do
Hi doctor how do the how do the white yeast sore apprearing in the mouth or tounge look like and do they appear in one place
Hi Joyla,
Hi Joyla,
if the person with the yeast sores is HIV-positive, it could be an opportunistic infection. But regardless of the status, it would be a very good idea to go see a doctor as soon as possible. It’s difficult to judge what the problem could be from a distance. A possibility could be a form of candidiasis that affects the mouth. But a doctor will be able to tell and treat it. Good luck!
Thanks alot for this page.
Thanks alot for this page. Please tell me if one takes Truvada and Alluvia and septrin whether he is HIV +Ve.
Hi Charity,
Hi Charity,
that combination of medication sounds very much like what a person with HIV would take. However, please don’t judge from the medication. If you want to know someone’s status, please ask. And even then, keep in mind that someone who is positive isn’t obliged to tell you their status.
I hope this helps!
Again how does it happen that
Again how does it happen that a man is HIV +ve and the wife is -ve and their child is -ve. Please explain.
Hi Charity,
Hi Charity,
these kinds of situations can be baffling.
But: while it’s pretty unusual for a man not to infect his wife, it’s possible, especially if they are just having unprotected sex in order to conceive. See, even if one person is HIV-positive and has unprotected sex with someone who is negative, he or she doesn’t necessarily immediately infect his sex partner. It can take a while.
And then, if the mum is HIV-negative, she can’t pass on the virus to the child, because she is not infected.
Even if the mum was infected, there are precautions that can be taken to make sure there is a high chance of the child being HIV-negative.
I hope this helps!
Thanx for your answers.
Thanx for your answers.
No problem- we hope it helped
No problem- we hope it helped!
Hi,my boyfriend is a dj 37yrs
Hi,my boyfriend is a dj 37yrs and not married.we have had sex 3tyms but with a condom kissed over 5tyms.he also sucked my vagina and also finger fucked me.he also touched his pre cum and touched my vagaina.i really dont trust him because he dont want us to go for a test.now am so scared and sweared i will leave him bcoz nowadays am getting sick every now and then..first i had typhoid of which all my joints were paining.having flu every now and then.later i got a urinal infection.which i got treated.now i feel pain all over my body n my heart aches too.my head is in pain too most of the times.am also getting angry so fast.i thot i was pregnant but i wasnt.later i went for a hiv test after a month and am negative.can i be positive??help me please am purtubed.thankyou
Hi Milly,
Hi Milly,
let me ask you please- if you don’t trust him, why are you having sex with him?
It’s good you are having sex with a condom. The rest of your sexual activities are relatively low risk.
You should however go for another test six weeks and three months after you last had sex, to make sure you are HIV-negative. Just to be on the safe side.
Then, you should also see a doctor. There could be a number of things going on, and it’s better to check and make sure you are okay. It’s difficult to judge from a distance, so please see a doctor or other healthcare professional soon. Please.
I hope this helps. Good luck with everything!
hey…I was to have sex with
hey…I was to have sex with a certain lady whom I met in town….I was drunk…I intromited my penis into her vagina n removed immediately after realizing I had not put a condom…could I have contracted the disease…am waiting to be tested nxt month( when 3 months end)….plz advice
Hi Dan ,
Hi Dan ,
Your risk of exposure was relatively low.
Firstly, Was this lady HIV- positive?
Secondly, it’s much harder to get infected for a man than a woman.
By the way, you can already get tested now- six weeks after the incident gives you generally accurate results already. But you should also get tested again after three months.
Good luck!
Thnx alot.i will visit the
Thnx alot.i will visit the hospital once again.
You are most welcome, Milly!
You are most welcome, Milly! Good luck!
I have never had sex with
I have never had sex with woman, i usually masterbat most of the time when am horny. when i am with a woman, I always think she has the virus, or should I wear 10 condoms when am having sex
Hi Njenga,
Hi Njenga,
Please don’t be afraid of sex. It’s understandable, as HIV can be life-threatening. But if you use a condom, you should generally be fine. Another option is to make sure you have only one regular partner, and that both of you get tested regularly.
And please don’t wear more than one condom- that actually would increase the chance of slipping.
can kissing transmit hiv?
can kissing transmit hiv?
Hi there,
Hi there,
There are no none cases of the virus being transmitted through kissing. Spit does contain the virus, but you would need buckets of saliva to run a risk of infection. So don’t worry- kissing is safe.
hi i dated a guy for 5 months
hi i dated a guy for 5 months we used a condom for a while bt later stoped, we hav had unprotected sex for like five tyms after. which i discovered a bag in his house full of drugs i dnt knw how arvs look like bt they are many i suspect its arvs im afraid of asking him i hav not gone back to him for one month after the discovery im scared he is on arvs en he might hav infected me as well.
Hi Daisy,
Hi Daisy,
please relax. Has it been more than six weeks since the last time you had unprotected sex? Then please go and have an HIV-test done. Then do another one after another six weeks, to be absolutely sure of the result.
If the guy is HIV-positive, being on ARVs is a good thing. It means that there is most likely little of the virus in his blood, and the chances of infection are lower.
But please, from now on, before you have sex with someone without using a condom, go get tested together. This will save you from a lot of panic later on.
I want to be among yu guys.
I want to be among yu guys.
Hi Maryana,
Hi Maryana,
what do you mean?
Can one infected 4 having
Can one infected 4 having unproted sex once
Hi Benson,
Hi Benson,
this is a very difficult question to answer.
Yes, you can get infected if you have unprotected sex only one. But, the risk is much lower. Your risk gets higher if you have an untreated STD, or have unprotected anal sex. Or if you are a woman. Or if the viral load of the person you are having sex with is very high.
So you see, there is no yes-or-no answer to this question.
So please be safe, and use a condom. Hope this helps!
can you get infected when
can you get infected when using a condom and it dint burst? 2nd if your partner touches his precum and touch your vagina can you get infected? thnx
Hi Milka,
Hi Milka,
the chances of getting infected when you used a condom that didn’t burst are very, very, very low.
And the chances of getting infected with precum are also pretty low, because there is usually only a very small amount.
However, if your partner is infected, you might want to get tested, to rule out infection. You should get tested after six weeks, and then again after another six weeks.
Also, if your partner is HIV-positive, you should be careful in the future to avoid possible infection.
I hope this helps!
Hi doctor,I had sex with a
Hi doctor,I had sex with a condom with a man whom I don’t know his status but we dated for three months.its now seven weeks since we slept
together. I was feeling sick and I visited a doctor because my joints were paining.and my eyes sees alittle blurred.the doctor suggested that I should test rheumatoid arthritis of which came out positive.I also did HIV test which was negative.can rheumatoid arthritis be a cause of HIV? pls help.thankyou
Hi there, no, rheumatoid
Hi there, no, rheumatoid arthritis can’t cause HIV. The only cause of HIV/AIDS is the human immunodeficiency virus, in short: HIV. The virus can only be passed on through unprotected sex or other exchange of bodily fluids, blood, and from a mother to a child while giving birth. So you should not worry about HIV. However, I hope your doctor has talked about the rheumatoid arthritis with you, and what it means for you and your body. I hope this helps!
Hi iam 24yrs and highly
Hi iam 24yrs and highly suspect im positive where can i get my cd4 and viral load test done?i was infected 1year 8months ago when the condom slipt off and we only realised after.The man told me he was clean but i developed yeast infection a month later.i pressured him to tell me the truth he still denied being positive,when we broke up he rudely told me he is positive through a text and hope im crying to this news.How can life be this unfair,i was always safe never had unprotected sex in my life only for a condom to slip with a guy who is conviniently positive.How can life be this cruel??
Dear Triza,
Dear Triza,
I’m so sorry to hear that! The last year and 8 months must have been so difficult for you!
I suggest you get tested for HIV as soon as possible. It’s still possible that you aren’t infected. A one time laps and a yeast infection are no guarantee that you are infected, so please, get tested now to give yourself some peace of mind. You can get tested at any hospital or VCT near you. We highly recommend LVCT.
Good luck and please let us know how it goes.
Thanks love matters i will go
Thanks love matters i will go tomorow please recomend me a place where i can get my Cd4 count test as well do they do them in vcts?i have had 1year and 8months to accept the situation and now i just want to focus on staying alive and healthy.i would advice people to abstain even a condom can fail you,and women please dont have sex with a guy until you know him well,choose your partner well,dont have sex with a man just so he doesnt leave you thats not love,Dont have sex if your heart is telling you to wait till marriage,dont rush to loose your virginity just to fit in.God bless you all
You are most welcome, Triza.
You are most welcome, Triza. Get the HIV test done first- if you indeed should turn out to be HIV-positive, a VCT counselor will be able to tell you everything about the next steps, including testing for viral load and CD4+-count.
Good luck!
hi,is it true that there is a
hi,is it true that there is a blood group that may be resistant to the HI-virus? if so,which one?
Hi Obimark,
Hi Obimark,
Unfortunately, this isn’t true. There is no blood group that is resistant to the HI-virus.
However, somewhat similar to blood groups, some people have a genetic mutation on their blood cells, specifically on their CCR-5 receptors, where the virus often enters the white blood cell. And that mutation can make people immune to the virus.
But again, blood groups can not make you resistant to the virus.
Hope this helps!
stil havent gathered enough
stil havent gathered enough courage to go for the test,im so depressed and its affecting my health,im so ashamed to be possibly positive im the only one and my God who knows about this and the guy who infected me 1yr 8mnths ago,i wish i had someone to take me,but im forced to go alone,tomorow il go for the test.
Triza, darling, it’s
Triza, darling, it’s completely understandable to hear what you are going through, that it scares you and that you feel alone. But, honestly, what is the worst that can happen? That your fears are confirmed. And as scary as that is, at least then you know, and you can take action as soon as action is needed. And what’s the best that can happen? That you find out that you are negative. I wish, too, that you had someone who you could talk to, and who could help you tomorrow, but you will come out of this a stronger woman, no matter what the outcome of the test will be. Triza, don’t feel ashamed. HIV isn’t something that affects naughty people only- it is not your fault the condom slipped. You did everything to protect yourself, and due to a tiny incident that wasn’t under your control, you got exposed. This is nothing to be ashamed about. Please remember that. All the best, Triza, and we will be thinking off you tomorrow. Please let us know how it goes.
i got tested two months after
i got tested two months after having unprotected sex with a hiv +ve man… i heard that the window period is 3-6 months, so what are the chances of my hiv -ve results turning +ve when i get tested after the window period
Hi Christine,
Hi Xtine,
it’s recommended to get tested six weeks after the time you had unprotected sex, and then again after three months. If you tested negative after three months, there is a good chance that you are indeed negative. But please get tested again four weeks after your first test. Then you should know for sure!
hi doc.please tell me how the
hi doc.please tell me how the Elisa test looks like.and is it so accurate?? please tell me because I slept with a Man I don’t know his status on March 20th.I did Elisa test on Saturday and it was negative. is it so accurate? can it detect HIV in two months? please explain to me.the test kit was white in colour and we waited for 15mins.is it true it was an Elisa test? explain the test that stays for two days b4 getting the results thank you
Hi there,
Hi there,
I’m pretty sure what you had wasn’t ELISA, but a rapid test. ELISA is a complicated test, that needs to be done in a lab. If done correctly, ELISA is very accurate.
I’m assuming your test looked a bit like a pregnancy test, that needed a drop of blood to work? That is called a rapid test, and the most common and fastest test. Generally, they are accurate. However, you should have another test done three months after March 20th, to make absolutely sure you are negative. And if you are negative, there is no need for extra lab tests- in general, rapid tests overestimate the number of positive people. If you are positive, then a lab test to confirm is helpful. But don’t worry, you should be fine!
Is it true that some people
Is it true that some people does not get infected with HIVAIDs even if they have unprotected sex with +ve prtna.
Hi Derick,
Hi Derick,
yes, to a certain extend, this is true. Some people, especially from Northern Europe, have a gene mutation that causes a change on their blood cells, specifically on their CCR-5 receptors, where the virus often enters the white blood cell. And that mutation can make people immune to the virus.
But: only few people have it, and unless it is confirmed by genetic testing, there is no way this should be an excuse for unprotected sex. Even then, there are still plenty of other diseases you can catch.
Also, it might be good to know that sometimes it seems that people can’t get infected. Especially for men, having had sex with someone who is HIV-positive once doesn’t necessarily mean they get infected immediately. Just imagine the flu- just because you sit next to someone who has the flu and they cough on you, doesn’t mean you get it. There is a definite risk though!
thanks for the support love
thanks for the support love matters,God bless,unfortunately the rapid test i did came back positive,but i expected it anyway,went to mbagathi hospital to check my cd4 count so i can know if i need to start on Arvs,but was told the Cd4 test is done in private hospitals now,only viral load test was being done,so i left,do you know a good private hospital i could go to for the Cd4 test?
We are so sorry to hear this,
We are so sorry to hear this, Triza. Please don’t blame yourself or be ashamed.
We would recommend Nairobi Hospital, but you can also check with LVCT for more information and referrals, they might give you more detailed information.
Thank you doc. for your
Thank you doc. for your advice… Bt Am so scared to go for testing again. why can’t i just rely on the results after testing two months after having unprotected sex with a hiv positive man. I got negative hiv results after the two months elapsed since my sexual contact with a hiv infected man. Please tell me that my results will remain the same even after re-testing when the window period is over
Hi Xtine,
Hi Xtine,
the reason why it’s recommended to go for testing 6 weeks and three months after the unprotected sex is that the test looks for antibodies to the virus in your body. You see, once the virus enters your body, your immune system starts building antibodies against it. This can take a few weeks. Generally, after six weeks (or two months, in your case) there should be enough antibodies for the test to be positive, But in some cases, there aren’t. This is why three months after the unprotected sex, you should get tested again. So you see, the chance that your test will be positive now is very low- but, in order to be really sure, you need to get tested again.
I want to. Know that. How
I want to. Know that. How long can the virus live after u do. Sex. In the penis
Hi Jere,
Hi Jere,
well, it’s not as easy as imagining that the virus only comes to the penis when you have sex. The virus ‘lives’ in some of the cells around your penis, as well as other immune cells in your body. So it’s not a matter of how long it lives there- it’s pretty much always there. Does that make sense?
IF you are infected with hiv
IF you are infected with hiv and you are using arv and smoking marijuana, is there aproblem
Hi there,
Hi there,
generally, it is recommended that you live a very healthy lifestyle when you are on ARVs. Also, smoking anything, will impact your lungs, and might aggravate any existing lung issues. Not even to start of the fact that marijuana is illegal. However, all this said, there are a few small experimental studies that have found that smoking (or eating) marijuana products can help ease nausea associated with ARVs. Does this help?
Can’t believe i will
Can’t believe i will eventually die!!!!!! Just found am seropositive,and sometimeq i feel so low.
Hi J,
Hi J,
finding out you are positive has a huge impact on your life, and feeling low is very normal. But, try to see it as an opportunity. You have your life in your hands right now. The better you take care of yourself, see doctors, watch your health, etc., the longer and healthier you will live. With ARVs today, in combination with a healthy lifestyle, your chances of living almost as long as if you were healthy is absolutely possible. Good luck!
im yet to know my cd4 count
im yet to know my cd4 count so i can know if i need Arvs,its so stresful finding a hospital that does tht test,public hospitals dont do them and private hospitals dnt gve much info bout Hiv care and consultations in their websites,its so ashaming to be Hiv posite and going to a random hospital and asking where can i get a Cd4 count test,the nurses just look at you like wawawa she is positive,i have had left hospitals without help because of the shame,i jst need to know my Cd4 count and where to get Arvs bt its so hard!!
Dear Triza,
Dear Triza,
once again, please don’t feel ashamed about your status. Even though especially nurses should know better than to smirk at you, remember it is the misconceptions that still exist around HIV that makes them act that way. It’s shameful for us as a society, not for you!
I suggest you get in touch with LVCT. They are located on Argwings Khodek, near Yaya Centre. They don’t only provide counseling services but also HIV treatment and care to people living positively. http://lvct.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=14&Itemid=57
Please let us know if you find help there!
H, i am seropostive n my gal
H, i am seropostive n my gal is negative. We have had unprotected sex severally but i make sure i dont release in her. Wht are the chances of infecting her?
Hi Peter,
Hi Peter,
please start using condoms whenever you are having sex.
It’s true that the chances of infection are lower when you don’t ejaculate in her- but, there is still a risk. There may be virus in your pre-ejaculate, for example. I’m hoping you have a low viral load at the moment, so at least she is at a lower risk.
Also, it’s good to keep in mind that it’s much easier for women to get infected than it is for men, so you are definitely putting her at risk. Make sure she is getting tested regularly, and that you use condoms every time you have sex.
Been on arvs for the last two
Been on arvs for the last two years and now my nerves are aching. Whats the problem? Sometimes I feel tinglish pins and needles on my right leg. Talked to my doc and he gave me some tabs ‘pyrome’. It cooled down but it resurfaces from time to time. Please advice
Hi Connie,
Hi Connie,
unfortunately, nerve damage is quite common in people with HIV, and those on ARVs. Life on ARVs isn’t always easy, unfortunately. Keep discussing it with your doctor, but it’s possible that this is something you might have to deal with from time to time. Sorry!
Dear God, reading Triza’s
Dear God, reading Triza’s escaped with various hospitals makes me thinking, what is wrong with our nurses? Can’t someone smack them so that they wake up. The same can happen to anyone, themselves, their husbands, sisters, brothers, mothers, fathers, children, the list is endless and do they expect to be served right if they cant do just to others? Its a pity on what goes on in our hospitals. Please Doc, try and identify good hospitals with courtesy so that you can direct us. We are Kenyans, we are human beings and need not be treated like animals. We didn’t look for it but it just happened. I just pray that one day, this will be over and we will be accepted in the community just like old times when Aids was not there. Its time for action to be taken, Its time to get nurses who are patient oriented and not gossipers with no heart to work in all hospitals for the benefit of all people regardless of their status.
Dear Connie,
Dear Connie,
thank you so much for your comment. Triza’s story is indeed a very sad reflection of what’s going on when it comes to dealing with people living positively. They are dealing with all kinds of stigma, even from healthcare providers, who should know much, much better. We recommend the services of Liverpool VCT (LVCT), as their care and services for people with HIV are excellent and non-judgmental. http://www.lvct.org
While taking pep after
While taking pep after infection kud u stil have the early hiv symptoms
Hi Don,
Hi Don,
the symptoms you feel on PEP (like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, nightmares, etc.) are most likely the side-effects of the PEP.
What kind of symptoms are you feeling?
ThankS connie,where do you
ThankS connie,where do you get your Arvs connie and are they free?what scares me is the side effects,the rashes and the weird dreams,how long will they last before the body is used to the drugs,and what about septrin,why are people given septrin before they start Arvs
Hi Triza,
Hi Triza,
septrin is given to in order to prevent opportunistic infections like toxoplasmosis.
The side effect, unfortunately, are no joke. It might take a while for your body to adapt, or for you to find the right combination of drugs.
i will come to lvct yaya,how
i will come to lvct yaya,how do i get there from town.How much will they charge me for Cd4 test count and consultation?
Hi Triza,
Hi Triza,
you can find directions through our ‘find a clinic’ tool: http://lovematters.co.ke/clinic/liverpool-vct
From town, Matatu number 8 should get you close, or anything going towards Yaya. Please contact them directly about charges.
we should practise
we should practise forgiveness in order to heal emotionaly,forgiveness sets you free and brings peace of mind that keeping of a grudge takes away,have you forgiven the person who infected you?i called the man who infected after over 1year of blocking him out of my life and being angry and despresd,before i couldnt even stand seeing his name anywhea without feelng nausea,anger and hate,he was happy to hear from me and i could tell the guilt and worry he had was gone,both of us are healed from that unfortunate incident thanks to forgiveness.
Thank you for sharing this,
Thank you for sharing this, Triza! You are a strong woman!
I had unprotected sex with a
I had unprotected sex with a divorced. lady. and now. I have. flu like. symptoms. can their. be any. possibility that. am infected
Hi Dennis,
Hi Dennis,
please let this be a lesson to you to always use condoms.
The flu-like symptoms could be a sign. But, in order to know, you have to get tested 6 weeks and three months after the unprotected sex. Only then will you know if you are infected with HIV or not.
Keep in mind that HIV is not the only STD. There are many others, and you should use condoms to protect yourself!
I had unprotected sex with a
I had unprotected sex with a divorced. lady. and now. I have. flu like. symptoms. can their. be any. possibility that. am infected
Ups!! How i wish there could
Ups!! How i wish there could be some more hope for the HIV patients. The world ought to be positive too concerning the psychological/mental distress of the patients. I pray one day there will be cure. Thanks a lot Mr. Love Matters.
Hi Joseph,
Hi Joseph,
we are praying with you!
Thanks a lot Treza. Stress,
Thanks a lot Treza. Stress, isolation, stigma,pain of opportunistic diseases all leads to these. but we have to accept and forgive. you are surely strong girl.
Very sweet of you, Joseph!
Very sweet of you, Joseph!
is it that having turn in
is it that having turn in lips be a symptoms of affected.e.g having pink lips?
pliz help!
Hi Cyrus,
Hi Cyrus,
no, that’s not generally sign of HIV/AIDS. If you, or a loved one is afraid to have been infected, it’s best to just take a heart and get tested- that’s really the only way of knowing!
thanks joseph,does anyne know
thanks joseph,does anyne know of a support group of young people living with Hiv?
Hi Triza,
Hi Triza,
try contacting WOFAK and see if they can help you with names of support groups
http://www.wofak.or.ke/
there is one very good one
there is one very good one but in kisumu in USAID estate…..in nairobi unfortunately all of them are in the slum areas-kibera, mathare etc
Thanks for your help, Sam!
Thanks for your help, Sam!
What if both partners have
What if both partners have hiv.and not yet on arvs and they dont use a condom what happens?
Hi Joyce,
Hi Joyce,
that’s not advisable. There a millions of slightly different types of the virus- and if the two partners have two different types, they can cross-infect each other. And that can make the disease progress much faster.
hi I feel itchy in my body
hi I feel itchy in my body and im afraid I had un unprotected sex could this mean that im already infected with hiv im afraid of being tested coz I can’t live knowing that im positive
Hi Luccita,
Hi Luccita,
feeling itchy generally isn’t a sign of HIV infection. Please get tested however, it’s much better being sure that you are negative than being in fear that your are positive. And please use condoms every time you have sex- it will save you lots of stress!
You find some people stay
You find some people stay long with the disease while other perish quickly can that be the immune system or the virus has specific types
Hi Jonathan,
Hi Jonathan,
yes, both! There are many, many different variations of the virus (which is why it’s important for two affected people to use condoms), but it’s not quite clear if some are more aggressive than others. But, as you mention, the immune system plays a huge role. The better it functions, the longer it will be able to keep up the fight. So it’s very important to take good care of the body. And of course, regular doctor visits and ARVs are also important. People who have reached the AIDS stage of infection will often die quite quickly if not on ARVs. Those who take medication will live much, much longer, in general.
Thanks for advice
Thanks for advice
You are most welcome, Omdiba!
You are most welcome, Omdiba!
can pep fail if taken before
can pep fail if taken before 72 hours are over and how long does it for the virus to enter into the blood cells?
Hi Rose,
Hi Rose,
unfortunately, PEP isn’t always effective. Some people on PEP will still get infected. So it’s very important to get tested after someone has taken PEP and then again a few weeks later.
The virus won’t enter the blood cells, but (I’m assuming this is why you are asking), it will take about four weeks for the immune system to have made sufficient antibodies to show up on a test. Does this help, or did we misunderstand your question?
Life insuarrance is it given
Life insuarrance is it given to HIV+ individuals?! I’m just curious cos I thought if it’s not then that’s stigmatisation
That’s a really good question
That’s a really good question, and to be honest, we don’t know. Would the insurance company ask for an HIV test for potential customers? This is really interesting, we will promise to look into it!
Does hiv cause penis pain in
Does hiv cause penis pain in men?
Hi Haroun,
Hi Haroun,
penile pain is generally not a symptom of HIV. If you are worried you might be infected by HIV or any other STD, please get tested as soon as possible, and in the meantime, please wear condoms whenever you have sex (and make this a general rule for the future).
very educative,insightful and
very educative,insightful and answers most of our questions
We are so glad to hear that,
We are so glad to hear that, Tom!
can one marry when he is hiv
can one marry when he is hiv positive?
Hi there,
Hi there,
of course! HIV shouldn’t stand in the way of love! Of course, and this should go without saying, the future wife should know about the status before she agrees to get married.
Have had sex with two girls
Have had sex with two girls then i am afraid i might gave gotten the virus… the first time i came to realize am having problem iN urinating alot of headache stomach pain muscle aches joint pain… now have lived for 8 good month with those problems… help me please i don’t want to visit vct center
Hi Carter,
Hi Carter,
please don’t be afraid and get tested as soon as possible. Yes, going to a VCT centre is scary, but living with the fear is even worse. Get the courage together and go, because testing is the only way to find out if you are positive or not.
And, from now on, please use condoms every time you have sex, so that you don’t have to worry about HIV anymore. All the best!
Must a hiv+ person die ailing
Must a hiv+ person die ailing
Hi Wambu,
Hi Wambu,
unfortunately, most HIV-positive people die of opportunistic infections. When the virus has destroyed their immune system to a point where even otherwise harmless diseases can kill them. So yes, that usually means that the person is pretty sick before dying. Thankfully, much suffering can be prevented with painkillers and other medication.
How long can a person on Arvs
How long can a person on Arvs survive,
Hi Peter,
Hi Peter,
a person on ARVs can have an almost normal life expectancy if he or she takes very good care of the body. That means taking the medication exactly as describes, living according to doctor’s orders and getting regular health check-ups.
i found that i was Hiv+
i found that i was Hiv+ after we continue having unprotected sex for 1yr but she is negative what cause
Hi John,
Hi John,
while it is unusual, this can happen. Women are generally much more likely biologically to get infected, but if your viral load was low during all this time, she didn’t have any STDs or other wounds around her vagina, it is possible to stay negative. And of course, it depends on how much sex you have- every time increases the chances. But regardless,we hope you only have protected sex now, to make sure she won’t get infected after all!
finaly i did the cd4 count
finaly i did the cd4 count test today its 627 im now on septrin,hoping i wont need Arvs for atlst a year.
Hi Triza,
Hi Triza,
we are glad you finally managed. Can we ask where you went and how your experience was?
All the best, and we will keep our fingers crossed for you!
what is speciel to discordant
what is speciel to discordant couples.the one who is not inffected even after staying with an inffected person for an long time
Hi Anne,
Hi Anne,
discordant couples should always use protection to avoid passing on the infection. However, it’s quite possible to be in a discordant relationship and have unprotected sex for a while without getting infected. Especially if the positive partner’s viral count is low, the chances are low. Also, if the infected partner is the woman, the chances of passing it on are lower. And, of course, it’s a numbers game- the more often you have sex, the higher the risk. So while it’s possible, it’s certainly not advisable to have unprotected sex for a while.
hi councellor, is it possible
hi councellor, is it possible for a new born baby to be negative while both parents were positive,?if yes then how…?
Hi Erick,
Hi Erick,
yes, it is possible.
Unless especially the mum takes certain precautions, the chances that the baby is infected are high, but it’s not impossible. And pretty much, the lower the viral count of the mother, especially if she is on ARVs, the chances are lower. The most risk as at delivery.
But yes, in general, it is absolutely possible. If a HIV-positive couple is planning on getting pregnant, it’s best to discuss this wish with a doctor before starting to have unprotected sex.
Most people find it hard to
Most people find it hard to believe that you can get hiv even when you use a condom.i have never had unprotected sex and yet i got Hiv because the condom slipt off and the man only cared about Pleasure and didnt stop just continued,be careful people and abstain tl marriage,most people are selfish and wl never care if they infect you.
Thanks for sharing this,
Thanks for sharing this, Triza. How have you been holding up?
thanx alot for the advice and
thanx alot for the advice and knowledge we get about HIV/AIDs
You are most welcome, Maureen
You are most welcome, Maureen!
Feel for you dear fried but
Feel for you dear fried but anyway take it positive, accept your status, take drugs and move on with life. Wish you well!
Encouraged by your
Encouraged by your informative comments. Have leaved with my partner for the last 11 years. Together we have had four children. Funny enough our first two kids are HIV negative while our last two kids and the mother are positive. Second last born is now 5 years and the last born 2 years. I the father has tested negative all the 4 times I have gone for a test at the interval of 3-4 months for re-test. Am I on time bomb of getting infected? My wife denies ever having any other man since we married.
Hi Lavimbi,
Hi Lavimbi,
it’s possible your wife was infected before you got married. It’s possible to have children who are negative, even when one parent is positive.
In order not to get infected, I hope you are using condoms every time you are having sex. And, also important, that your wife goes for regular check-ups and takes ARVs.
Does this help?
Am going for the text next
Am going for the text next week,am encouraged to know that i can leave for 20yrs,this is enough time to do some good staff to my generation and family,i thut if i had it am done instantly.if i will test positive i will be a guinea pig and try find the cure,its better to die trying than to sit down and wait.and i wish all the infected good people would come together and ask God to show them the cure.courage brother and sister,you are just a victim of circumstance and not an outcast because what you did and got infected,is what others do and are not affected.
Hi Simon,
Hi Simon,
you can live even longer than 20 years when you are positive. So just get tested. We love your attitude by the way, we wish there were more people like you!
i hear in countries like
i hear in countries like america people are vacinated against flu,especialy hiv positive individuals,Do we have flu vaccine in kenya?what about menengitis vaccine
Hi Treza,
Hi Treza,
yes, getting these vaccinations can be a good idea, and they are available here. We do recommend for you to speak with your doctor about this to see if they make sense for you.
thanks for the response love
thanks for the response love matters,will ask my doctor.
You are very welcome, Triza.
You are very welcome, Triza.
IN TERMS OF MINUTES AFTER A
IN TERMS OF MINUTES AFTER A CONDOM BREAKS, HOW LONG DO YOU THINK ONE CAN GET THE VIRUS,MORE SPECIFICALLY TO CIRCUMCISED MALES.
Hi Techi,
Hi Techi,
you mean with a circumcised man and an infected woman?
Well, isn’t not really a matter of minutes. But, in case of a circumcised man and an infected woman, the risk is very low. It’s all about the contact of body fluids with certain parts of the penis, and circumcised men have very little area where the virus can enter. Does this help?
IN TERMS OF MINUTES AFTER A
IN TERMS OF MINUTES AFTER A CONDOM BREAKS, HOW LONG DO YOU THINK ONE CAN GET THE VIRUS,MORE SPECIFICALLY TO CIRCUMCISED MALES.
a bit xtressed, ad a
a bit xtressed, ad a galfriend bt dint no of her xtatus coz xhe assured me of jer safty, waz told she waz positiv bt i douted coz i new she cdnt lie tu me, nw shez dead and all are saying the diseas killed her, am confused of what tu du, plz help coz am afraid of test, incase am found positive i’ll think of death, hw du i curb ma xtress
Hi Vinny,
Hi Vinny,
please get tested as soon as possible.
If you are positive, then you need to be sure you can be put on medication, if necessary. So please, as scary as testing might be, it’s better to know than not to know. You can read more on testing here, http://lovematters.co.ke/news/vct-and-hiv-testing-top-five-facts, that might help with the fear. Good luck!
i had unprotected sex with
i had unprotected sex with hiv possive woman am now 3month old since the game doest it mean am also infected
Hi Osmano,
Hi Osmano,
you need to get tested.
HIV often doesn’t have any symptoms for the first 8 to 10 years of infection. And during this time period, testing is the only way to find out if you are infected or not.
After three months, a rest is also very reliable. The body needs some time to build antibodies, which are detected in the test. But by three months, there shouldn’t be any doubt left, and the test will show reliably whether it’s positive or not.
i messed up twice by having
i messed up twice by having unprotected sex but am afraid of going for test. moreover i suffer from Generalised anxiety disorder and am on Benzo’s. Am afraid if i get tested and the result come positive I might go into a severe depression. I know most people say what you dont know cant harm you. but i tend to believe with what you don’t know can kill you.. FEAR is my only limitation.
Hi Pitts,
Hi Pitts,
you are right- what you don’t know can kill you. Which is why it’s even more important to get tested as soon as possible. Take someone you trust, so you don’t have to go alone, and there is someone there to support you. Chances are, you are negative. But then, it’s so much better to know than to just think you are. Isn’t it? Isn’t knowing better than not knowing? You can do it! All the best!
i slept with an infected
i slept with an infected woman for times but am not affected and eight mounth has passed…is their a chance of me not getting it.
Hi Gerald,
Hi Gerald,
yes, it seems like you did not get infected. Men are luckier than women- it’s more difficult to get infected for men. That does not mean that you will never get infected. So please start using condoms every time you are having sex.
Pitt i also suffer from
Pitt i also suffer from Generalised anxiety disorder.when i found out my boyfriend was secretly positive i was scared to go get tested,i was in denial for almst two years until my health started failing and i was forced to go get tested,now im on septrin and my health has improved and the fear and depression is gone.The sooner you know the earlier you can start taking care of your health and the healthier you will be.You will be ok.
Hi Triza,
Hi Triza,
we love how you give advice. We are interested in expanding our information on HIV, and living positively, and are going to have some discussions on that in the future. If you are interested in participating, could you send us an email to [email protected]?
Thanks love matters,i will
Thanks love matters,i will email you,so you can give me more information.
Thanks Triza, we got it.
Thanks Triza, we got it.
thaxs for ua answers.if the
thaxs for ua answers.if the mother is Hiv + and pregnant and you know the last month of pregnancy what can be done to prevent the child from getting infected??
Hi Cate,
Hi Cate,
the biggest risk of infection for the baby at this point is the delivery itself. Discuss this with the doctor in charge, but, depending on the viral load, it might be necessary to get on ARVs (if this isn’t already the case). But, the most important thing is that the mother is in the care of the doctor who knows about her status- that way, all necessary precautions can be taken according to the individual situation.
it rily helps.we hv lived for
it rily helps.we hv lived for 3yrs.ma hubby iz +ve.i tested -ve for da last 21/2yrs bt of late i hd bn hvng common cold n flu can dat b a sghn
Hi Liucy,
Hi Liucy,
the common cold is indeed often the first, and for many years, the old sign of an infection. But then, depending on where you live, it could also just be the cold August weather that’s causing the symptoms. Are people around you sick? Don’t stress just yet. Keep on getting tested regularly, and don’t have unprotected sex. Please let us know how it goes, it you feel like it. All the best!
what is deep kissing/
what is deep kissing/ can hiv be transmitted through this
Hi Chris,
Hi Chris,
deep kissing usually refers to kissing while using your tongue, and the risk of getting HIV from it is tiny, very, very minimal.
Hi, there is a married man
Hi, there is a married man who is bedridden in hospital due to Hiv/Aids infection but his wife has been tested negative three times n she is very healthy, also the children are negative…the man has been sick for almost a year, does it mean that the wife will be infected with time?
Hi Ronnie,
Hi Ronnie,
if she has been testing negative three months after the last unprotected intercourse, then yes, she is still negative and won’t get positive unless she has more unprotected sex. It’s absolutely possible, but she was very lucky.
Its there medicine for the
Its there medicine for the mothers who breastfeeding can take to avoid infect disease to their babies?
Its there medicine for the
Its there medicine for the mothers who breastfeeding can take to avoid infect disease to their babies?
Hi Grace,
Hi Grace,
the key is to keep the viral load as low as possible. But it’s always best to discuss the individual situation with the doctor treating you, because there may be other options, or restrictions.
If you r hiv positive and you
If you r hiv positive and you have been taking arvs to prevent the baby,and i underwent cs my baby was given nevirapine for two days,and i breastfeeded my baby,does it mean my baby wil test positive ,he is two weeks now but am still on medication.
Hi Bella,
Hi Bella,
chances that your baby will be negative are high! You have been sticking to the precautions, so the risk of infections were and are low. Keep talking to the doctor to see when and at what intervals your baby should get tested. It might take quite a while to get final results, as the baby’s blood may contain some of your antibodies. All the best!
hi.I av an issue.awk I had
hi.I av an issue.awk I had unprotected sex with a guy.then that same eveving I had he is HIV positive. the following day I went for pep n I thank God I found one.but a week after I stopped taking the drugs then later came for the remaining doseage.of which I faithfully took upto I finished the dose.but now that am through am having suggestive symptoms like muscles aches around my knee n headache though not severe.can it b HIV andAIDS???????am really scared n so far its five weeks since exposure
Hi Sallie,
Hi Sallie,
so sorry you are going through this!
We really can’t say if you are infected or not. It’s true that some people get flu-like symptoms, but if that’s what you experience, we don’t know. It’s good that you were on PEP, but the interruption could have affected its effectiveness.
Unfortunately, the only thing you can do is wait and get tested in a week, and then again after 6 weeks. Only then will you know if you are really negative. All the best!
i know of a couple who are
i know of a couple who are hiv-positive but have given birth to kids who are negative but the mother breast feeds the babies up to 6 months. why is that?
Hi Evelyn,
Hi Evelyn,
if a couple takes precautions, like ARVs during pregnancy and conception, and follows the guidelines given by doctors, it’s absolutely possible to have negative babies as a discordant couple.
can hiv lymph nodes be
can hiv lymph nodes be painful but not swollen and does pep cause pain in some body parts?
Hi Kochez,
Hi Kochez,
swollen lymph nodes are usually a sign of some sort of infection your body is fighting. This does not have to be HIV though! It could be a simple cold. PEP has many side effects, and body pains are possible. If you have been exposed and have been on PEP, please make sure you get tested 6 weeks and 3 months after exposure. All the best!
Ok, am Mr O married with
Ok, am Mr O married with children, two years back i had a girlfriend who loved me very very much, and i loved her too. we used to do sex using protectives purposely to avoid impregnating her, later personally i realized that i was HIV +. I did not tell her coz i feared she could boot me away. Then time went by she insisted that she is tired of condom and she wanted areal dick, a naked one. i tried to dodge her by convincing her to go for test first. She was afraid of that. We then started having sex without condom till she got pregnant. When Her mum realised that she was pregnant, the mum forsed her to abort, then later went for a test and was found -ve. How do that one come about my good friends
Hi there,
Hi there,
firstly, we hope you realize how irresponsible your behavior was. You knew you were positive, but because you were afraid of honesty, you risked her health. Also, you realize that you are cheating on your wife, right?
Anyway, if your viral load is low and you are on ARVs, then the risk for infection for your partner is low. So even if you often had unprotected sex with her, that doesn’t mean she necessarily got infected.
Tnx fo the gd wak ua doin.a
Tnx fo the gd wak ua doin.a qstn pls….i met this guy n we had a hiv test n it was neg we usd condoms at first then we stopd using protection 5 mths later another test n his was pos mine neg we dint hav sex afterwards.my result has remaind neg n wen i told him to go fo a confirmatory test he said it was neg.i usd to do the tests myself i bot test kits.so is it that the kit can show false results or results fo different infections.??tnx in advance.
Hi Liz,
Hi Liz,
if there is a positive result on a test, it’s always best to get a more specific lab test done, like ELIZA or Western Blot. That way, false results are excluded. The quick tests that are often used are very sensitive, so they really pick up all infections. The downside is that they sometimes show false positive results. And that’s why a retest is the best way to go. Does that help?
I met this health guy. and we
I met this health guy. and we started the relationship,after 3 month I was told he is positive and on ARV,plz does that mean I am +
Hi Ann,
Hi Ann,
so sorry to hear you are going through this.
Did you have unprotected sex? If you did, you need to get tested six weeks and three months after you last did. Only then will you know if you are positive or not. Good luck!
Wat if ma husband n i hv tst
Wat if ma husband n i hv tst positiv n hvng unprotctd sex but using Arvs ist gd
Hi Nancy,
Hi Nancy,
even couples who are both positive should be using condoms. It could be that you got infected by slightly different versions of the virus, and if you have unprotected sex, you could co-infect each other, which means infecting each other again with your own virus version. And that’s really not good. Does this help?
thank very much for the
thank very much for the advice,I would lk to ask can u get infected if was withdrawing when having sex
Hi Ann,
Hi Ann,
yes, unfortunately there is a risk of getting infected with withdrawal. The best thing is to always use a condom if you have sex.
thank u for ur advice,we did
thank u for ur advice,we did not use any protection,bt he used to withdraw before ejaculating,plz what are tha chance to be infected
Hi Ann,
Hi Ann,
for your peace of mind it might be good to know that if your partner’s viral load is low (and because he is on ARVs it should be), the risk of infection is low.
I kissed a girl who was hiv +
I kissed a girl who was hiv + and she had a cut on her lips..she is on ARvs is there chances i got infeted??
Hi there,
Hi there,
unless you also happened to have a wound, and there was direct exchange of blood, the chance of getting infected is tiny. Check out our HIV myth buster for more info: http://lovematters.co.ke/news/hivaids-myths-busted
Can one get infected for
Can one get infected for kissing a hiv+ girl who has a cut on her lips..
aids is like any other
aids is like any other disease so long as u know hw to main
tain n do safe sex. iam lulez.
Hi there,
Hi there,
it’s true, you need to do a lot to maintain your good health. And the earlier you do, the better, because then you can start early. And the earlier, the better your chances are of living longer.
i tested one year after
i tested one year after having unprotected sex.And iwas negative.But i fear going for other tests.I had never had sex before.
Hi Baguma,
Hi Baguma,
if you had sex one year before the test, and no unprotected sex since, than you can trust that the test was right!
You are the best!! I had so
You are the best!! I had so much to ask but its lyk all my questions are answered, plus have had alot of knowledge from this. Thanx.
That is great to hear, Brenda
That is great to hear, Brenda!
And from all your comments, I
And from all your comments, I can say am one lucky gal. Went for the test today (after I visited ur page I felt the need 2) and was yet -ve together with my 4 yrs old dota. My story: I met my husband in 2002 but settled later around 2005/6, we were the best of friends & this moved him to disclosing his status to me (+ve). I was deeply in luv by then but this cun’t stop me from running away, what kept me around was the love we shared & plus him being genuine/resposible too. We had many challenges from CDs bursting(numerous ), the desire to go free, cuts & the most challenging having a baby. In 2010 God blessed us with a dota without assistance from health care. But still was -ve. My worst nightmare is here, he is currently not well & from the info.av gathered he is in the last stage(probably ) being that he refused to be on drugs. He is at risk & so are we coz of the viral load & low cd4 count. How can we keep on being safe, am scared even sexually? ?
Hi Brenda,
Hi Brenda,
we are so glad you went for a test.
Is your husband on ARVs? We really recommend that he should see a doctor, in case he hasn’t already. Does he?
Thanx, we av but not yet on
Thanx, we av but not yet on drugs, currently his on TB treatment. Am I really safe?
Hi there,
Hi there,
please make sure you always use condoms, then you should be safe.
I AM AFRAID OF TEST BEING
I AM AFRAID OF TEST BEING THAT IF AM TESTED HIV POSITIVE HOPE SO IT WILL BE THE END OF MY. LIFE CAUSE MY BLOOD PRESSURE IS HIGH.HOW SHOULD I HELP??????????
Hi Limpopo,
Hi Limpopo,
high blood pressure is definitely not a sign of HIV. And it’s okay to be scared, but let me ask you, what is scarier? Not knowing or knowing? Isn’t it better to know, and even if you are positive, then at least you can take all measures to stay healthy as long as possible? There are good medications out there, that will help you stay healthy long. So don’t worry too much. Get tested, and then worry about what happens. And, if you test negative, you will feel so much better than you do now! You can do it! All the best!
Can de virus get u before pre
Can de virus get u before pre -ejaculation?
Hi James,
Hi James,
are you talking about a man or a woman? For a man, sex with an infected woman has nothing to do with pre-ejaculate. The question is then, is there an entry point, like a wound, or a sore, for the virus to come into your body? If not, then the risk is low. If there was, then yes, there is a chance. But that also depends on the lady’s viral load, if she is infected. Does this help?
incase you are not sure that
incase you are not sure that your partner has HIV and condom burst will you have to go for Post exposure prophylaxis????
Hi there,
Hi there,
that’s indeed a good idea, especially if you suspect your partner could be positive. It’s also a good idea for both partners to get tested. Best would be about six weeks and three months after.
people can live longer if
people can live longer if they accept the condition.
If accepting means taking
If accepting means taking ARVs, and living healthily, the chances that they will be able to live longer will indeed be better.
Hi im married and i once
Hi im married and i once found my maid naked and slept with her
i didnt use protection after a while my wife came and she wanted sex i couldnt resist .i wasnt even washed after i was with the h help.
is there any infection that my wife can gt from the maid through me.
please advice im very sorry for what i did.
Hi Joe,
Hi Joe,
washing or not wouldn’t have made a difference.
And yes, it’s possible that if you got an STD, you might have passed it on to your wife. So it’s a good idea for you to get checked for STDs by a doctor. And if you have one, you will need to get your wife tested to.
Do you have any information
Do you have any information about youths who do HIV testing repeatedly within a period of 24months? Ideally, once someone gets tested, the post test counselling should last them aso long before they seek another test. But the rate at which youths gets sexual exposures, they may be going for ‘just to be sure’ kind of tests. Being a HTC service provider, I have had this experience. Do you have any information.
Hi Ambrose,
Hi Ambrose,
no, we don’t, sorry.
But we are interested in hearing more, and maybe have an article on it. If you would like to share your experiences, please drop us an email at [email protected]
hello,
hello,
i am infected but afraid to tel my partner but am sure he is already infected by me. i want hm to discover it by himself without any suspision on me. pls help
Hi Sasha,
Hi Sasha,
have you suggested getting tested together?
You tell him that you just want to do it together, because you are afraid to do it yourself.
Do you think that could work?
good idears
good idears
Thank you, Murunga!
Thank you, Murunga!
No shortkats 4this, Just kip
No shortkats 4this, Just kip out of sex b4marriage, ad use codoms if need be.
Hi Peninah,
Hi Peninah,
we think there is nothing wrong with sex before marriage if done responsibly, but there is one more important factor you don’t mention, and that’s being faithful. Because even if you are abstinent until marriage, who says your partner is/was, and he or she won’t have extramarital sex?
so disapoiting aftr 1yr to
so disapoiting aftr 1yr to realize he was Hiv 5years ago…am confused worried n don knw if i should go fr test.a matter of 2 jus feel ave betryd my kids love.
Liza,
Liza,
please, please, please get tested.
Even if you turn out to be positive, it is better to know, isn’t it?
Please go to a VCT and do the test. You will feel better afterwards. All the best!
is it possible to hav sex
is it possible to hav sex with an infected person and i dnt get the virus..
Yes, Ann, it is possible. Not
Yes, Ann, it is possible. Not every sexual contact with someone who is infected leads to infection, especially if the infected person’s viral load is low.
My frind’s wife is hiv + but
My frind’s wife is hiv + but each time he goes for hiv test the result is alway negative and they dont use any protection during sex..How is that posible?
Wycliffe,
Wycliffe,
they should start using protection straight away.
Not every contact will lead to HIV, especially if the uninfected partner is that man (who has no other wounds or STDs), and the wife’s viral load is low. The risk isn’t too high then, but in order for him to stay negative, they need to start using protection. As soon as he gets a wound, or her viral load spikes, he is at a much higher risk.
hi have just found out that
hi have just found out that my boyfriend is HIV posited and I tested negative how long does it take for me to show that am infected.
Hi Monicah,
Hi Monicah,
first of all, not every sexual contact with someone who is infected leads to infection, so it’s possible you are still negative.
But, to be on the safe side, you should get tested 6 weeks and three months after your last unprotected intercourse. If you are still negative after three months, you can be certain that you aren’t infected.
And please, from now on, use a condom every time you have sex!
We will be keeping our fingers crossed for you!
Am scared 4 test. Plz. Help
Am scared 4 test. Plz. Help me get courage.don’t ve peace of mind 4 long
Hi there,
Hi there,
have a look here, it might take some of the scariness away:
http://lovematters.co.ke/news/vct-and-hiv-testing-top-five-facts
Happy new year,i need friends
Happy new year,i need friends who are hiv positive,im 25years old was infected in october 2012 by my then boyfriend who knew about hz status bt kept it a secret.i dnt knw anyne else who is HIV except my ex and currently we are not in talking terms.
Triza,
Triza,
You can also try to post this on our Facebook page.
Hi I had unprotected sex two
Hi I had unprotected sex two months ago an Av started feeling sick can it b am already affected
Emi,
Emi,
Please get tested now, and then again in a month.
That’s the only reliable way to find out if you are infected.
Early signs can be flu- like symptoms, and then there are often no signs for 8 to 10 years. That’s why testing is crucial.
Can one get the virus from
Can one get the virus from sucking the breasts of a HIV lady?
Tony,
Tony,
unless she has a gushing wound, and you have sores around your mouth, that’s an extremely low risk.
By the way, breast milk does contain the virus.
If u r hlv postive then u r
If u r hlv postive then u r using the septrine not arvs.then when u go for cd4 test u find that it is on higher side like 1000.can test negative?or can u stop taking madication
Josephine,
Josephine,
the CD4+-count doesn’t influence the test. The test looks for HIV-antibodies in the blood. So, if the virus is present, there will be antibodies (starting from about 4-6 weeks after infection).
Whether or not you should stop taking medication should be discussed with your doctor,
We hope this helps!
BRAVO LOVE MATTERS
BRAVO LOVE MATTERS
Thank you, Robert!
Thank you, Robert!
please I like to know what
please I like to know what RVS means. because I was asked to go for an RVs test which I did and the result reads NoN REACTIve what does it mean. does it have any connection with HIV and aids
Katherina,
Katherina,
please talk to the health-care provider who did the test, he or she should be able to help you answer your question.
so many victims are
so many victims are traumatized in several health facilities,why should they be separated from the rest of the patients;in the nearby health facility around ma home,i’ve seen the hiv patient being served differently,thus creating stigmatization of the victims as some do not wish to be known to the public,
Thanks for your input, Mot.
Thanks for your input, Mot.
But don’t you think that keeping them separate would also stigmatize them?
if a mother is positive and
if a mother is positive and on arvs but the father is not on treatment and not using protection what will happen to the unborn child ,will the child be affected?
Hi Tebogo,
Hi Tebogo,
is the father positive as well? If he is, precautions would need to be taken to make sure that the mother doesn’t get infected with his strain of the virus as well.
But, there is a good chance that the child will be negative. It’s best to discuss the individual case with a doctor who is familiar with the situation and can give tailored advice.
19 november 2014 i discovrd
19 november 2014 i discovrd dat am hiv + i went to clinic thy gave me pills thy said is for energy boost if i go bck again isnt it too late to start wth ARVs or approximatly how many years to cume do i stil stand a chance to liv an i dont hv any symtoms only a stinky discharge
Nelly,
Nelly,
the clinic most likely took blood to determine how many CD4+-cells you still have. Those are the immune cells that get attacked by the virus. Seeing that you didn’t get ARVs, you probably didn’t need them yet. Keep going back to the clinic to get tested regularly.
ARVs can prolong your life considerably, and if you take them as prescribed and take very careful care of yourself, your life expectancy will be almost normal.
Where do you live? It might be a great idea to join a support group.
What is false positive??
What is false positive??
False positive means that the
False positive means that the test shows a positive result but the person is not actually positive.
HIV tests are very sensitive- the idea is that it’s better to have a few false positive tests rather than missing some infections.
Plz help,am 6years living wid
Plz help,am 6years living wid Hiv and i want to get marred my man is negative,and he love blowjob can blowjob affect my man?i want to keep my man healthy and safe evryday,can we have children together?plz help
Elizabeth,
Elizabeth,
unless you have bleeding wounds in your mouth and he has wounds or sores on his penis, the risk is very low. However, if you are still unsure, use a condom for the blowjob, then there is hardly any risk at all.
And yes, there are ways to
And yes, there are ways to have children, but it depends a lot on your health status (your viral load should be very low at the time of conception).
It would be best for you and your partner to discuss this with a doctor who is familiar with your situation and who can give tailored advise.
i know am safe but I have a
i know am safe but I have a Boy friend who I ought he is infected and i don’t trust condoms are you sure condoms are safe
Salma,
Salma,
condoms are very safe, and your best bet.
But why don’t you go and get tested together? That way, you can be sure of his status.
condoms are safe only if used
condoms are safe only if used well,i used condom and still got infected because it slip off and we realised when it was too late.The guy claimed he was clean but he wasnt,and i learnt that the hardway.
Triza,
Triza,
you are absolutely right, condoms can fail.
Thanks for pointing that out, and sharing your experience.
So yes, condoms will protect in most cases, but getting tested before having sex would be even better.
I hve nodes in my upper side
I hve nodes in my upper side of the neck.Does that shw i hv viral infection n alot of sweating?
Hi Bright,
Hi Bright,
swollen lymph nodes are a sign of some sort of infection in the body.
What causes it is another story. Keep an eye on it, and if they stay swollen, please see a doctor.
I started taking ARV drugs 4
I started taking ARV drugs 4 years ago. I am taking them as required. Now I am 33 years old. kindly give me my estimation of life expectancy.
Francis,
Francis,
unfortunately, we can’t. It’s great that you take them as required, but we can’t predict what will happen in the future.
However in general, being on ARVs and living healthily means that people have a near normal life expectancy.
If one thinks he/she is
If one thinks he/she is sexually exposed and goes to hospital, is she required to be tested together with the one they had intercourse with?
Chela,
Chela,
no, you can go on your own.
However, in case you do test positive, you should let your former sex partners know what’s going on.
Mimi nimechill and thats the
Mimi nimechill and thats the safest tool for fighting this big disease with a small name.
Thanks for sharing your
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
im 26yrs old looking for an
im 26yrs old looking for an hiv positive man to date.The only Hiv + person i knw is my ex and i cant date him.
We hope you will find someone
We hope you will find someone, Triza!
Can you conduct HIV test
Can you conduct HIV test using semen or sperms
Hi Ann,
Hi Ann,
the concentration of the virus is usually lower in semen than in blood. Which is why blood is preferable for testing.
Also, traditional HIV-quick tests don’t test for the virus but antibodies to the virus in the blood.
Thanks for your advice, I ve
Thanks for your advice, I ve been having sex with several people, for about years now, but showing no symptoms. but one day I found out that,I had gonorhea, can I be infected with HIV
Asiamah,
Asiamah,
having other STDs can increase the risk of getting HIV.
And often, the first symptoms only show 8 to 10 YEARS after getting infected. So it would be best if you went for a test as soon as possible. Good luck!
I did sex with sex worker In
I did sex with sex worker In Nairobi 3 month ago with two Condoms and the result Negative should get infected
Jey,
Jey,
please, never use two condoms. That increases the chance of slipping and actually makes it more risky.
If you got tested negative after three months, then you have nothing to worry about!
Did the sex worker condoms be
Did the sex worker condoms be safe or
Kamau,
Kamau,
if you are having sex with a sex worker, then using condoms will reduce your risk of getting an STD significantly.
Now i am in 3month And 13Days
Now i am in 3month And 13Days from that day.. Can i go and tested other 3month..and is it safe sex worker condom.
i became sick from that day .
Jey,
Jey,
yes, after three months, you will get a reliable test.
So please get tested as soon as possible.