HIV STILL MATTERS

Human
immunodeficiency
virus

GET TO KNOW HIV

Let’s break down the basics of HIV, a virus that’s been around for decades but still carries a lot of misunderstandings. Whether you’re looking to stay informed or just want a refresher on the facts, here’s what’s worth knowing.

What EXACTLY is HIV?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It’s a virus that exists in your body and in your bodily fluids, like blood, semen, vaginal fluids and breast milk.

While HIV can lead to AIDS, the two terms aren’t the same.

AIDS, or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, is a diagnosis that occurs when HIV significantly weakens someone’s immune system. It weakens the immune system to a point where someone picks up another infection that their body would have usually fought off. It’s this combination of infections that leads to someone being diagnosed with an AIDS defining illness.

Thanks to advances in treatment, having HIV doesn’t mean someone will develop AIDS.  

How do people get HIV?

HIV doesn’t spread as easily as some other viruses (like the flu, for instance). You won’t get it from a hug, a handshake, or sharing cups or utensils. The main ways HIV is transmitted includes:

  • Sex (including anal, vaginal, or frontal sex) without protection.
  • Sharing needles or injecting equipment.
  • From a mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

How Many People Are Living with HIV? 

Currently, about 39.9 million people are living with HIV globally, and this includes 1.4 million kids under the age of 15. Here in Australia, just under 30,000 people are living with HIV. 

  • 93% of people were aware of their HIV status. 
  • 95% of people diagnosed with HIV were on treatment.  

Prevention efforts have led to fewer new cases over the years. For example, in Victoria alone, new diagnoses dropped from 312 in 2016 to 220 in 2023.  

In 2023: 

  • 39.5% of diagnoses were among people born in Australia and 59% among those born overseas. 
  • 85% of new cases were men, while 9.5% were women. 
  • 39% were diagnosed by a GP compared to 29% from a sexual health specialist clinic. 
  • The most common age for a new diagnosis was between 30 and 39 

Why HIV is Still a Global Issue? 

Despite treatment advancements, HIV and AIDS remain significant health issues worldwide. Millions of people have died from HIV-related complications since the 1980s. In some regions, limited access to testing, treatment, and prevention can lead to severe health outcomes and death. Without a cure or vaccine, HIV continues to be a global health challenge. 

Who Does HIV Affect? 

HIV doesn’t discriminate. Anyone, regardless of income, background, gender, or sexual orientation, can contract the virus. Some groups are affected more by HIV, but everyone can benefit from using HIV prevention strategies and getting tested regularly. 

How Can HIV Be Prevented? 

There are more ways to prevent HIV than ever before, making it easier to stay protected and in control of your health. Here’s a quick rundown of the options:

  • Condoms: Tried and true, condoms create a physical barrier that prevents the virus from being transmitted during sex. They’re simple, accessible, and effective for all types of sexual encounters.
  • PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): PrEP is medication that people who are HIV-negative take to prevent getting HIV. It creates a biological barrier inside the body preventing HIV from entering the blood’s cells. It’s a powerful tool for prevention. 
  • PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): PEP is an emergency option for people who may have been exposed to HIV. Taken within 72 hours of exposure, this medication course can prevent the virus from establishing in the body. It’s ideal in cases of unexpected exposure, such as condom breakage or getting caught up in the heat of the moment.  
  • UVL (Undetectable Viral Load): When a person living with HIV is on effective treatment, their viral load can drop so low that it’s undetectable. This is called having an Undetectable Viral Load (UVL). With a sustained UVL, HIV cannot be transmitted to sexual partners—a concept known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable). UVL is the most effective HIV prevention strategy available! It’s a major breakthrough for both personal and public health, helping reduce stigma and transmission alike.

Together, these options mean more choices and control over HIV prevention, making protection and health a reality for everyone. Find out more about these options at What Works.