Dear Counsellor:

I tested HIV-positive few weeks ago and this is really scary. Can you tell me how soon it will be before I develop AIDS? Right now I feel fine; I have no signs of illness.

PW

Dear PW

I'm truly sorry to hear that you are infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. A positive result does not mean that you will develop AIDS. A positive test result indicates that you have been infected with the virus that causes AIDS and that you are very likely to transmit the virus to others, even if you have no symptoms of illness. A positive test result also means that you will carry the virus throughout your life, or until a cure has been found.

Most people who test HIV positive remain free of the illness for a very long time. However since HIV can persist without symptoms for years, all persons with a confirmed positive test are considered potentially infectious and should either abstain from sex or use a condom every time they have sex. I must also encourage you to visit a health care provider/doctor who is HIV-knowledgeable.

Christians friend has AIDS

Dear Counsellor:

My best friend just gave me the shock of my life when she told me she has AIDS. We are supposed to be Christians; we have been attending the same church for years and we both hold high positions. She has been sick for a while but I had no idea that this was what was coming. What should I do? Right now I'm lost.

Christian Friend.

Dear Christian Friend:

If your best friend is infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, show her compassion and don't judge her. Try to imagine how you would feel if you suddenly found out you had HIV. Treat your friend just like you would like to be treated. Someone with HIV or AIDS needs compassion, help, support, treatment, and preventive services like any other person who is sick or likely to become sick.

No one deserves to get HIV or AIDS. Although your friend is a Christian, that would not prevent her from becoming infected with HIV. HIV is transmitted by having unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex or by receiving infected blood. It therefore means that all sexually active persons are at risk for sexually transmitted infections, including, HIV if they are not using condoms and they are not sure that their partner is uninfected and will remain uninfected.

I would suggest that you encourage your friend to visit a doctor/ health care provider who is HIV-knowledgeable to be medically assessed and get a better understanding of HIV/AIDS.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3764 or toll free at 1888-991-4444 or write to AIDS Affairs c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.