What are the signs and symptoms?
Many people have no symptoms, but those who do can have:
- Mild flu-like symptoms (fever and chills)
How is it spread?
HIV is spread by coming in contact with infected blood, semen, pre-ejaculate, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. It can be spread through:
- Unprotected sex (vaginal, oral, or anal).
- Shared needles or drug equipment used for injection or snorting drugs.
- Reused tattoo ink or unsterilized needles or equipment used for tattooing, skin piercings, or acupuncture.
- Pregnancy, delivery, and breastfeeding from an HIV-infected mother to her infant.
- Needle stick and other exposures in health care settings.
How is it prevented?
HIV can be prevented by:
- Abstaining from sexual activities.
- Both you and your partner being tested at the beginning of your relationship.
- Using condoms every time you have sex.
- Never sharing any drug equipment.
- Making sure all equipment is not contaminated (sterile needles and new ink for each person) and the shop is licensed and inspected by our Health Inspectors before you get a tattoo, body piercing, or acupuncture.
- Talking with your doctor about being tested if you’re pregnant. Early treatment can prevent passing HIV from mother to baby before birth.
Where can I be tested?
- Sexual Health Clinic
- Family doctor
- Walk-in clinic