Advancements in HIV treatments mean that a person infected with HIV can lead a healthy, active and long life. Treatments can suppress the virus so it is no longer detectable and cannot be passed onto others. The earlier a person is diagnosed as being HIV positive, the more effective the treatment and the lower the risk of infecting others.
How the infection is passed
You may become infected with HIV through
- Unprotected sex with an infected partner
- Sharing syringes and needles with infected drug user
- Receiving infected blood transfusions, organ or tissue transplants
- An infected mother to a child in the womb, birth or breastfeeding
Those at greater risk of HIV infection
- Men who have sex with men
- Are from a black and minority ethnic group
- Participate in chemsex - the use of illegal substances while participating in risky sexual behaviour
- Injection drug users
Repeat HIV testing is advised for the above groups and can be accessing through the Warrington Sexual Health service at Bath Street, which also provides HIV support post-diagnosis.