AIDS: Debunking some popular myths

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: December 1 is celebrated as World Aids Day, and this year’s theme is ‘Equalise’, which aims to broaden and speed up the interventions to end the HIV spread. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus, popularly known as HIV, and it destroys the immune system of the body, thereby making it vulnerable to infectious and noninfectious diseases.

The first case in the world was recorded in the US in 1981 and the early victims happened to be gay men. The scientists were initially clueless about dealing with the virus, but later in 1987 an antiretroviral drug known as AZT was developed to treat HIV infection. Though a cure is yet to be found, there are medications that help patients manage the condition and lead a normal life.

However, even 40 years after it was first detected, AIDS continues to be seen as a dreaded disease and there are many myths surrounding it. In India, AIDS patients often get stigmatised and face many forms of discrimination. After consulting health experts in the city, we try to debunk some of the myths.

Myth: Contracting HIV virus is a death sentence

Reality: When the virus was first studied, it was found that it reduces life expectancy, which is clearly not the case now. Early identification and regular testing methods can help curbing the viral load in the body. There is no permanent cure for it, but there are treatments which can help control the viral load, which would lead to a comparatively longer life expectancy.

Myth: Getting infected by HIV virus results in AIDS

Reality: The final stage of the HIV Virus is AIDS, but all HIV infections need not lead to AIDS. Timely detection and treatment can help control the HIV viral load and avoid AIDS.

Myth: Symptoms of HIV are obvious

Reality: Individuals infected with HIV virus might experience slow occurrence of symptoms or none at all. This is because the development of the virus takes shape in three levels, the initial stage induces basic viral infection symptoms like fever, fatigue or even resembles a flu. The second stage is known to lack symptoms and can exist for years without the infected individuals realising. The final stage results in the development of AIDS symptoms, which results in compromising the immune system.

Myth: People who are HIV Positive cannot have children

Reality: It is possible to conceive safely, but certain measures have to be taken in order to curb the possibility of infecting the co-parent and the foetus. There will be risks lurking until unless an antiretroviral medication treatment is prescribed. C-section delivery and eviction of breastfeeding procedure can reduce the contraction rate of the virus. Children born of either of the infected parents can live a long and healthy life with early identification and treatment.

Myth: Infected couples do not require contraception

Reality: Couples might experience different versions of the virus and so contraception and medication should be followed judiciously to expel the possibilities of reinfection.

Myth: Individuals in heterosexual relationships do not get HIV

Reality: There is a belief that only homosexuals are infected with HIV virus, and it got well-entrenched because the early victims of this disease were gays. However, anyone sexually active with multiple or single partner can get infected through sexual intercourse – regardless of whether it was a homosexual or heterosexual contact. Even oral sex can lead to the spread of virus.

Myth: Protection from HIV with the use of birth control alternatives

Reality: Forms of birth control that formulate a physical barrier, such as condoms, are the only ones that are effective, as it blocks the fluid exchange which is the root cause of the infection.

Myth: Too late to get tested for HIV

Reality: There is no shame in having multiple partners. Doctors will recommend regular STI testing alongside HIV testing. Regular check-ups can be helpful at any stage, as the goal is to stop the spread of the virus to the vitals of the human body.

Myth: No way to prevent HIV

Reality: Pre-exposure prophylaxis is the drug prescribed to individuals with HIV viral infection. Its authenticity is similar to birth control pills, but is comparatively effective and can curb the viral load.

Ensuring proper contraceptive measures are deemed best to prevent the infection.