Is it true that only gay people get HIV?
My classmate told me that only gay people can get HIV. Is this true?
No, it is not only gap people who get HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). HIV is a viral infection that
can affect anyone, regardless of their sexual orientation. These kinds of statements are dangerous since they perpetuates stigmatization and discrimination towards gay people.
HIV can be transmitted through various ways, such as unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles
or syringes for drug use, and from an infected mother to her child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
These ways of transmission are not limited to any particular sexual orientation.
HIV affects individuals of all sexual orientations but it is important to remember that the risk of HIV transmission depends on behaviors and practices of individuals since some have higher exposure to the virus. For instance, HIV is likely to be transmitted from unprotected anal sex without or when a partner is not taking medicines to prevent or treat HIV. Anal sex is the type of sex most likely to transmit HIV.
To decrease transmission of HIV, we should ALL practice safe sex, regular testing, access to healthcare and adhere to treatment, and educate ourselves on HIV transmission and prevention.
We should all try to increase our understanding of understanding HIV/AIDS especially on risks, prevention, and treatment options available so as to protect ourselves and others.
What myth have you every heard about gay people? Talk to us in the comments section.
Related: Who is at a higher risk of getting HIV?