Dear Counsellor:

I'm HIV infected and don't know what to do. I'm afraid. Is there any one I can talk with? Do I have to give up sex? I'm just taking smoking for it. What can you tell me about treatment? Please help me.

HIV Positive

Dear HIV Positive:

If you are infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, you may want to examine how you maintain your health. It is important that you maintain a proper diet, exercise, and get enough rest. Try to eliminate unnecessary stress in your life, both at work and at home. You should avoid smoking; it is not helping you at all. It is important that you treat your body well. It is all about working hard to fight HIV infection.

Many people infected with HIV are exploring different ways to manage their infection in addition to their regular medical routine. You should discuss treatment options with your health care provider.

Having HIV or AIDS does not mean that your sex life has to stop. Some people, out of fear or misinformation, have given up sex, thinking that this is their only option. But you can be sexually active. It will require making some changes. You should only have safe sex, even if your partner is also HIV infected. A person already infected with HIV can become re-infected. Unprotected sex also puts HIV infected people at risk for other sexually transmitted infections.

You should also maintain an optimistic attitude; this will help you to cope better with HIV. A positive mental attitude can help you feel stronger and healthier and may slow the progression of AIDS.

1888991-4444 or write to AIDS Affair, c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.