Hey fellas, what do you know about HIV? Are you clear on how the virus is transmitted, how you can protect yourself or the symptoms you should look for?

According to the CDC, about 1.1 million Americans have HIV, with about 15 % of those people not knowing they have it. HIV is an acronym for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV is a virus (if not treated) that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome most commonly known as AIDS.

HIV reduces the number of T Cells in the body which makes it easier for a person to get other infections or infection-related cancers. Overtime and untreated HIV can destroy so many cells that the body simply can’t fight off infections and disease.

It’s important to note that HIV symptoms can vary from person to person and no two people experience the exact same symptoms. With that being said, HIV symptoms generally include:

Flu-like symptoms 2-4 within contracting the virus

• Body rash
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Severe headaches
• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Ulcers in the mouth or on genitals
• Muscle aches
• Joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Night sweats

Men should pay specific attention to the following symptoms in addition to the above list of general symptoms

• Ulcer on the penis
• Hypogonadism – poor production of sex hormones (low testosterone or erectile dysfunction)

HIV is not transmitted through

• Air
• Water
• Saliva
• Sweat
• Tears
• Insects
• Pets
• Sharing toilets
• Sharing foods
• Sharing drinks
• Closed-mouth kissing

HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids like blood, semen, pre-cum, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk from a person with HIV.

The most common transmission of HIV is through risky sexual behaviors such as anal or vaginal sex without using a condom or taking medicines to prevent or treat HIV and needle or syringe use.

For more information on HIV and testing visit  24-7labs.com  Confidential Rapid HIV Testing is available with results within 20 mins. No insurance or doctor’s script required.