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Here I introduce you to just a few of the myths surrounding HIV. Because of these false ideas that circulate over and over again they build up false credibility and gather weight. We need to stop them dead in their tracks, debunk them and encourage people to stop repeating them. Some of these myths are the cornerstone of the Stigma that people living with HIV encounter, sometimes on a daily basis. But always at the back of their minds. It causes anxiety, isolation and low self esteem. It can lead to poor lifestyle choices and it introduces barriers that stop people from being tested for HIV. We have a large group of people in this country living with HIV yet not knowing it. Living like this is bad for you. Your health will ultimately suffer. Stop worrying about HIV, its managed with a single tablet a day now. Taking medication regularly means you will achieve what’s called an “undetectable viral load”. This means you can’t transmit the virus to anyone. You can lead a normal sex life, have babies even. Safe in the knowledge that NO ONE is being adversely affected. Not even you any more. So, if you are reading this and having a regular sex life, go get tested for HIV. Its no big deal anymore. Whilst you are about it, look into PreP and PEP. I’m saving them for another broadcast, but if you test negative for HIV (which I hope you do), then PreP and PEP will help you stay that way for ever. Its true.
Here I introduce you to just a few of the myths surrounding HIV. Because of these false ideas that circulate over and over again they build up false credibility and gather weight. We need to stop them dead in their tracks, debunk them and encourage people to stop repeating them. Some of these myths are the cornerstone of the Stigma that people living with HIV encounter, sometimes on a daily basis. But always at the back of their minds. It causes anxiety, isolation and low self esteem. It can lead to poor lifestyle choices and it introduces barriers that stop people from being tested for HIV. We have a large group of people in this country living with HIV yet not knowing it. Living like this is bad for you. Your health will ultimately suffer. Stop worrying about HIV, its managed with a single tablet a day now. Taking medication regularly means you will achieve what’s called an “undetectable viral load”. This means you can’t transmit the virus to anyone. You can lead a normal sex life, have babies even. Safe in the knowledge that NO ONE is being adversely affected. Not even you any more. So, if you are reading this and having a regular sex life, go get tested for HIV. Its no big deal anymore. Whilst you are about it, look into PreP and PEP. I’m saving them for another broadcast, but if you test negative for HIV (which I hope you do), then PreP and PEP will help you stay that way for ever. Its true. read more read less

5 years ago #hiv, #makinghivstigmahistory