From the very start of the HIV/AIDS wave, the focus of HIV prevention efforts has primarily been on those who are at risk for HIV infection. A substitute approach to prevention would focus on those already recognized with HIV and focus efforts on preventing transmission from those in the reservoir to others. The success of the latter approach hinges upon improving identification of those infected with HIV, then effectively motivating them to adopt and maintain safe sex and injection practices. The most recent reauthorization of the Ryan White Care Act has made this approach part of the national vision for HIV prevention policy. In this article we will summarize the standard approach to counseling to reduce sexual risk behavior, review common problems faced by the HIV clinical practitioner in effectively encouraging patients to adopt safer sexual practices, and discuss ways to promote safer sex in clinical practice.
HIV, the human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV is mainly transmitted by contact with the blood, semen, or vaginal fluids of infected people. The HIV infected person can infect others, even if no symptoms are present.
HIV can be transmitted by having unprotected sex vaginal, anal, or oral with an infected person. Unprotected sex is sexual intercourse without consistent and correct condom use.
Using or being stuck with a needle or syringe that has been used by or for an infected person.
Giving birth Women with HIV infection can pass the virus to their babies during pregnancy or childbirth. In some cases, they can also pass it on when breast feeding. Some people have been infected by receiving blood transfusions. However, the risk of infection through blood transfusions has been practically eliminated since 1985 when cautious and extensive screening and testing of the blood supply for confirmation of HIV became standard practice.......
