Medical science and technology have advanced by leaps and bounds in detecting and treating the HIV/AIDS virus. A lot has changed since the Center For Disease Control and Disease first used the term AIDS in 1982. Over the past 35-yrs, diagnosing and treating the virus have dramatically progressed to the extent that prognosis is no longer a death sentence.

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) - the a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by a severe loss of the body's cellular immunity, that leaves the body vulnerable to life-threatening infections and cancers.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)- a type of virus called a retrovirus, which can infect humans when it comes in contact with tissues that line the vagina, anal area, mouth, or eyes, or through a break in the skin.

Make no mistake HIV and AIDS is still an epidemic because there is no cure. If you are sexually active the #1 defense against the disease -

1. Get tested (you and your partner) and know your status.

2. Use protection at all times

3. Do not engage in risky sexual behavior (limit partners.)

For more details on how often you should get tested for HIV/AIDS or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) click here.

What are HIV/AIDS symptoms? Signs of infection can lay dormant for up to 10 years. Fatigue, forgetfulness, muscle soreness, fever, swollen glands and rapid weight loss are some symptoms. Though there are some signs, they are not reliable.

How do you know if you have HIV? The only way to know your status for sure...is to get tested.

How does testing work and how long will it take to find out? SLAC testing is done on sight and they use Alere Determine Combo (a finger prick test,) which identifies HIV faster than any other testing. Know your status in 20 minutes! This test can detect both HIV-1/2 antibodies and the HIV-1 antigen within 12-26 days after infection.

Knowledge is power! Come out to get informed and enjoy fellowship, refreshments and more as we recognize World Aids Day this Saturday December 7, 2019. Become more aware about testing, treatment and much at the annual event. For more details see the flyer below:

SLAC AWARENESS
SLAC AWARENESS
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Barbara D. “BJ” Miller

Southwest Louisiana AIDS Council

Director of Community Development & Outreach

YES Partnership Coordinator

Community Health Worker Supervisor

425 Kingsley Street

Lake Charles, LA 70601

337-439-5861 x210

337-436-8713 Fax

barbaram@slac.org

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