Are you a HIV Positive?
Being HIV Positive (HIV) is a retrovirus that primarily infects vital components of the human immune system such as CD4+ T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells. Also, it directly and indirectly destroys CD4+ T cells. As these cells are required for the proper functioning of your immune system, when enough CD4+ T cells have been destroyed by HIV, the immune system functions poorly, leading to the syndrome known as AIDS. HIV also directly attacks organs, such as the kidneys, the heart and the brain leading to acute renal failure, cardiomyopathy, dementia and encephalopathy. Many of the problems faced by people who are HIV positive result from failure of the immune system to protect from opportunistic infections and cancers. It is very important that if you are HIV positive that you get support from others who are also HIV positive. HIV support can come from many sources, mainly family and physicians.
People who are HIV positive can transmit HIV through direct contact of a mucous membrane with a bodily fluid containing HIV. This transmission from an HIV positive person can come in the form of: penetrative sex; oral sex; blood transfusion; contaminated needles; exchange between mother and infant during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding; or other exposure to one of the above bodily fluids. Be aware that if you are HIV positive you should take all preventative measures to not spread the infection to someone who is not HIV positive.
More information about being HIV Positive.