Myths and Facts on AIDS
It is also the reason why it becomes fatal sometimes. There are many misconceptions and misunderstandings about AIDS; let’s look at the top ten myths about AIDS.
Myth 1- HIV and AIDS are the same.
The fact is that HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. Although HIV can cause AIDS, not all HIV-infected people will develop AIDS disease. When HIV infection is present in the body, the immune system becomes so weak that it may lead to AIDS.
Myth 2- If HIV is present, you will die soon.
The fact is that earlier in the 1980s, the deaths due to AIDS were very high. But, with ART (Antiretroviral therapy), HIV does not lead to AIDS. Hence, HIV is not fatal all the time.
Myth 3- HIV infection happens only through risky or unprotected sexual behaviour.
The fact is, AIDS is not an outcome only due to unprotected sex. There are several other reasons that will lead to AIDS, like using needles and syringes that were used by individuals infected with HIV on a healthy person, a mother to her child during childbirth.
Myth 4- You can contract HIV through kissing, hugging, sharing cups, sharing toilets, and mosquito bites.
The fact is, HIV causes infection only after it enters the human body. It cannot be transmitted by air, water, etc. HIV cannot survive for long periods outside the human body. Hence the spread cannot be through kissing, hugging, sharing toilets etc.
Myth 5- HIV can be treated with traditional medicine and by having sex with virgins.
The fact is, there is no scientific evidence, and such ideas are dangerous. There is no life-saving therapy except ART therapy.
Myth 6- People in monogamous relationships can also get AIDS.
The fact is, sex with an uninfected partner in a single lifelong, mutually monogamous relationship may be a safe circumstance. It is unlikely that this will happen to many people.
Myth 7- An HIV vaccine already exists.
The fact is, there is no such thing as an HIV vaccine. But scientists are doing better daily research to get closer to making this a reality.
Myth 8- HIV/AIDS was created.
The fact is that there is no specific evidence that HIV and AIDS were invented in the laboratory. There is also no proof that it is linked to government conspiracies.
Myth 9- It is not AIDS that kills people, but the medicines they take.
The fact is, since the introduction of ART (antiretroviral therapy), AIDS patients’ life expectancy has increased.
Myth 10- People who have HIV or AIDS appear sick.
The fact is, most people who are affected by HIV do not even know they are affected or carry the virus.
Conclusion
Misinformation about HIV and AIDS fuels fear, stigma and delayed diagnosis. In reality, HIV is a manageable chronic condition when identified early and treated with modern antiretroviral therapy. The virus cannot be passed through casual contact, and effective prevention tools—condoms, sterile needles, routine testing and, where available, pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)—greatly reduce transmission risk. Scientific research continues toward a vaccine, yet existing treatments already allow people living with HIV to lead long, healthy lives. Staying informed, challenging myths and supporting evidence‑based healthcare all play vital roles in ending both the epidemic and the prejudice that surrounds it.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance and testing. Treatment choices should be made only under the supervision of a licensed clinician.
HIV spreads primarily through unprotected vaginal or anal sex, sharing needles or syringes, and from mother to child during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding.
The risk is much lower than with vaginal or anal sex, but transmission is possible, especially if either partner has bleeding gums, sores or other sexually transmitted infections.
There is currently no cure, but antiretroviral therapy suppresses the virus to undetectable levels, prevents AIDS and allows a normal life expectancy.
Everyone aged 13–64 should test at least once; those with ongoing risk factors, such as multiple partners or needle sharing—should test yearly or as advised by a clinician.
References
- Root-Bernstein, R. S. (1995). Five myths about AIDS that have misdirected research and treatment. Genetica, 95(1–3), 111–132. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01435005
- Yimer, A., Kebede Kassaw, A.-A., Surur, S., & Mussa, E. (2024). Prevalence of misconception about HIV/AIDS transmission and associated factors among reproductive age women in Ethiopia: a nationwide study. BMC Infectious Diseases, 24(1), 54. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12879-023-08884-8
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