Common Misconceptions About AIDS

AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a serious disease caused due to HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). The virus attacks the body’s immune system. Once individuals get HIV, they have it for life. There are so many myths and misconceptions about HIV or AIDS. Many people are still afraid of hugging, kissing, or shaking hands with an HIV-positive person. Although it is often transmitted through sex, the virus can also be transmitted through certain body fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluid, rectal fluid, or breast milk. Sex between an HIV-positive and an HIV-negative partner can be dangerous if condoms are not used. HIV myths and misinterpretations are the consequences of deception and obliviousness. We can dispel the myths and combat the stigma once we are aware of the matter.

Let’s see some common misconceptions about HIV or AIDS.

1. AIDS is a curse:

Never think that AIDS is a curse. If you are HIV positive, it won’t mean that your life is over. One should never have a negative mentality about it. You should talk to your friends, family members, and others to share your feelings. Don’t feel shy or frustrated all the time. You should always have a positive vibe to fight the virus.

2. HIV can be transferred by kissing or hugging:

Many people think that HIV can be transferred by kissing or hugging. It is a misconception. HIV-positive people should lead a normal social life. There is no bar to hugging someone or to pass time with someone in your society even if you are HIV positive. Don’t destroy your regular normal life, if you are HIV positive. Hugging and kissing or touching anything is normal and safe.

3. Cannot have sex:

HIV-positive can have sex but it should be safe. Using a condom can be a very easy and effective solution. Don’t hamper your sex life if you are HIV positive. You can have it with due protection.

4. HIV positive means life is over:

Sometimes HIV positive people get frustrated with their life. They don’t take medicine properly. They even don’t eat healthy foods. They think their lives are over. It is a misconception. Such a mentality can impact one physically and mentally.

5. HIV from insect bites:

Many people think that HIV can be transmitted from the bites of mosquitoes or insects. Insects cannot transmit HIV to human beings. It is a misconception as well. It was proven that AIDS cannot be transmitted through mosquito bites.

6. Unprotected sex:

Many HIV-positive people think that having sex without a condom or in an unprotected manner is safe. It is a misconception. In most cases, HIV is transmitted through unprotected sex. It is wise to have safe sex if someone is HIV positive or at risk of it.

7. HIV symptoms are obvious:

Many people think that HIV symptoms are obvious. The symptoms are not the same all the time for all. People should not lead reckless life. Many times HIV is asymptomatic. It is a misconception that you will see the symptoms from the very beginning of the infection.