In Saida, the month of December is dedicated to prevention, awareness and combating HIV and AIDS. Although they are similar, there are differences. Ribeirao Perez infectious disease scientist Martin Perez Jr. explains what it means to be a carrier of the virus and to have the disease.
“Anyone with HIV is a carrier of the virus, meaning the person is not sick, has no signs and symptoms, but can actually transmit it. When we say that someone has AIDS, it is because they are already showing signs and symptoms and they continue to transmit. The doctor explained.
Also according to him, there are some noticeable signs and symptoms that may be related to the diagnosis. “The signs are characterized by something that we can measure, for example weight loss, diarrhea, a bowel movement several times a day that does not go away even with the use of medications, oral thrush and so on. On the other hand, the symptoms are what we feel, like a fever. All this manifestation, which lasts more than a month, can be AIDS. Therefore, it is very important to get tested to determine whether a person is infected or not. “ Martin pointed out.
Both HIV and AIDS are sexually transmitted diseases that cannot be cured but can be cured. Early diagnosis and proper treatment make the virus undetectable. The best way to prevent this is to use a condom during intercourse.
In the case of exposure, when there is a relationship without the use of a condom, a free and confidential test is indicated. Ribeirão Pires, through SAE (Specialized Assistance Service), located at Avenida Francisco Monteiro, 205, Centro, offers free and personalized assistance for the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, including psychological support. Opening hours are 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
The Basic and Family Health Units also offer free HIV diagnostic tests.
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