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Raising awareness of HIV and AIDS

Date published: 01 December 2022

Practise safer sex to help prevent the spread of HIV. Get tested quickly if you think you've put yourself at risk, as early diagnosis and treatment is important.

Viral infection

HIV/AIDS is a viral infection caused by HIV retroviruses. It can be transmitted:

  • through sexual contact
  • through sharing of HIV-contaminated needles and syringes
  • from mother to child before, during, or shortly after birth

Many people who are living with HIV have no obvious signs or symptoms. The only way of knowing if you have the virus is by taking a HIV test. 

It's important not to delay seeking advice and taking this test if you feel you have been at risk. 

People with HIV have a near-normal life expectancy if diagnosed early and treated quickly. 

You can find out more about on these pages:

  • HIV and AIDS
  • Information and support for people with HIV and AIDS

Prevention and safer sex

It is estimated that the majority of cases where the infection has been passed on are from those with undiagnosed HIV.

It is important to take steps to reduce your likelihood of getting HIV. 

If you have unprotected sex, you are putting yourself at risk of getting HIV or another sexually-transmitted infection (STI).

If you're sexually active you should:

  • use condoms
  • limit the number of sexual partners
  • get tested early if you think you might be at risk

More useful links

  • Talking to your child about sex and teenage pregnancy
  • Sexual health
  • Your local doctor (GP)
  • Sexual health NI
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