BASIC FACTS ON HIV / AIDS
Read and download the very popular education material in comics form published in 1999.
PSAP-PAROLA HIV/AIDS Campaign for Seafarers
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A pioneering HIV/AIDS information material for seafarers, inspired by seafarers, in the maritime world
BASIC FACTS ON HIV / AIDS
HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus
AIDS – Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
AIDS is caused by infection with a virus: HIV. Having AIDS means that the body’s immune system has been damaged. Immune system is a vital part of the body as it fights off infection.
When infected, the body reacts by producing anti-bodies, but these anti-bodies are not capable of destroying AIDS virus. The AIDS virus even starts to destroy the immune system itself. A damaged immune system cannot combat anymore any illnesses entering the body.
The period before the symptoms start to appear can vary tremendously, with an average of eight to ten years. Only a HIV test can show whether someone’s blood contains anti-bodies to the AIDS virus. In this case, then the person is HIV positive.
The body need s at least six months before the anti-bodies can be fully detected in the blood. Therefore, if someone would like to be tested and would like the result to be reliable, wait for six months after have had unsafe sex.
People with HIV can look healthy and feel healthy, but they can infect others.
HIV / AIDS is easy to avoid, but impossible to cure.
It is transmitted only through:
Unsafe sex
Sharing infected needles and syringes
Blood transfusion with infected blood
HIV positive mother to her baby during pregnancy
How can we prevent HIV / AIDS?
Abstention from sexual intercourse is the best way. Or be faithful to one uninfected partner.
Practice safer sex. Use condom correctly and consistently. A condom protects us not only against HIV / AIDS but also from other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).
Sail Safely, Safety on Board, Safety Ashore.
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