December 1 is a day celebrated as World AIDS Day which is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of AIDS. AIDS or Acquired Immune Deficiency is an infectious disease caused by the HIV virus ( Human Immunodeficiency Virus ). In general, the HIV virus is a virus that damages the body's immunity by destroying white blood cells which are needed for helping the body fight against the infection. The more white blood cells that are damaged/destroyed, the weaker a person's immune system will be.
The HIV virus can move from one body to another through certain fluids which include: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluids, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. When these fluids get on mucous membranes such as the rectum, vagina, penis orifice, or mouth, or are directly injected into the bloodstream, where HIV transmission will occur.
There are at least 5 steps that can be taken to prevent transmission of the HIV/AIDS virus, including:
- Using a condom when having sex
As a means of contraception, latex condoms can be used as a barrier to prevent the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. This is because condoms can prevent partners from sharing body fluids both when ejaculating and at any time. - Be wise in choosing a sexual partner
In certain cases, the chance of transmitting or contracting the HIV virus increases with an increase in the number of sexual partners one has. This is because everyone has the possibility of having a sexual history involving other people so that they can transmit HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases to their current sexual partner. Therefore, one way for people who are sexually active is to have a monogamous relationship, which means that they only have sex with their partner and vice versa. - Undergo HIV tests regularly
If someone is sexually active, then an HIV test needs to be done to maintain health and reduce the possibility of transmitting the virus to others. In addition, the test is also recommended to be carried out with a partner and this is carried out to re-ensure that there is no risk of transmitting the HIV virus when having sexual intercourse. - Avoid consuming illegal drugs
Syringes are one of the means that can be used to transmit the HIV virus to other people through the bloodstream. Therefore, the consumption of illegal drugs such as narcotics needs to be avoided especially sharing needles with other people to reduce the risk of transmitting the HIV virus. - Perform Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
Post-exposure prophylaxis or post-exposure prophylaxis can be done for someone who has not yet been infected with the HIV virus but has the potential to be affected. This procedure needs to be done a maximum of 72 hours after exposure through sexual intercourse or needles to reduce the risk of HIV infection. When carrying out the procedure, a person will be given medicines that must be consumed within 28 days.
Those are the steps you can take to prevent transmission of the HIV/AIDS virus. Immediately consult a trusted hospital doctor if you or your closest relative feel exposed to the virus.
Article was written by dr. Fenny Elvina Ridho, Sp.PD – FINASIM (Internal Medicine Specialist at EMC Cikarang Hospital).