HIV remains a significant public health issue, but advances in medical science have made it easier than ever to manage and prevent. This blog will discuss what HIV is, how it affects the body, and what steps you can take to protect yourself. We will also highlight the availability of PrEP and PEP medications through Aviva Pharmacy and how they can help reduce your risk of contracting the virus.

What Is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system by targeting specific cells that help the body fight infections. Over time, untreated HIV can lead to AIDS, making the body highly vulnerable to life-threatening infections and cancers.

HIV is spread primarily through unprotected sex, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. It’s important to note that HIV cannot be spread through casual contact like hugging, kissing, or sharing food.

HIV Symptoms and Stages

HIV symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the infection. Early symptoms may resemble the flu, with fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, and fatigue. These symptoms may last for a few weeks, after which the virus enters a latent stage, where it may not cause noticeable symptoms for years.

Without treatment, HIV will progress to AIDS, a stage where the immune system is severely weakened, and the body becomes susceptible to infections and diseases that it would otherwise be able to fight off. Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing this progression.

How to Prevent HIV Infection

Preventing HIV is a combination of regular testing, safe practices, and access to preventative medications. Here are some key strategies:

1. Regular HIV Testing

Testing for HIV regularly is crucial, especially for individuals who are sexually active, have multiple partners, or engage in high-risk activities such as needle sharing. Many people may not show symptoms in the early stages of HIV, making testing the only way to confirm if you have the virus.

Aviva Pharmacy offers convenient HIV testing services, allowing you to stay informed about your status and take the necessary precautions to protect your health.

1. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

PrEP is a highly effective daily medication that can prevent HIV infection in individuals at high risk. By taking PrEP consistently, you can reduce your risk of contracting HIV by over 90%. PrEP is recommended for people with HIV-positive partners, individuals who engage in unprotected sex, and those who use intravenous drugs.

You can access PrEP near me at Aviva Pharmacy or have it delivered directly to your home for convenience. We also offer programs to help individuals get PrEP for free if they qualify.

1. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

PEP is used in emergency situations after potential exposure to HIV. It must be taken within 72 hours of exposure to be effective and is typically prescribed for 28 days. PEP is essential for preventing HIV after incidents like unprotected sex or needle sharing.

If you believe you've been exposed to HIV, it’s critical to act fast. Aviva Pharmacy provides quick access to PEP for HIV exposure to ensure you can start treatment immediately.

Understanding the Importance of Early Treatment

If you test positive for HIV, starting treatment early is essential. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) helps manage the virus by reducing the viral load in the body to undetectable levels. This not only prevents the progression of the virus but also significantly reduces the risk of transmission to others.

At Aviva Pharmacy, we offer support and guidance for individuals living with HIV, helping you manage your treatment and stay healthy.

How to Access PrEP and PEP at Aviva Pharmacy

Aviva Pharmacy provides a range of services to help you access HIV prevention and treatment options:

• PrEP Medication Delivered: We offer delivery services for PrEP, ensuring you can stay on track with your daily medication.
• PEP for Emergency Situations: If you need PEP, our pharmacy provides fast access, ensuring you start treatment within the critical 72-hour window.
• PrEP for Free: For those who qualify, we offer assistance programs to help you get PrEP for free, making prevention accessible for everyone.

Conclusion

HIV prevention is about being informed, proactive, and consistent. With the right combination of regular testing, safe practices, and access to preventative medications like PrEP and PEP, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting HIV. Aviva Pharmacy is here to support you with PrEP medication near me, PEP for HIV exposure, and delivery services to keep you