Doctor Agaeva Offers Key Insights on Reducing HIV Infection Risks
As World AIDS Day approaches on December 1, Dr. Agaeva has provided crucial advice on how to minimize the risk of contracting HIV. The virus is primarily transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk from an infected individual. Notably, casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing household items does not pose a risk of transmission.
Dr. Agaeva highlighted that individuals engaging in unprotected sex or sharing needles are at the highest risk for HIV infection. Additionally, healthcare workers should be cautious of accidental needle stick injuries, which can also lead to transmission. Symptoms of HIV can vary widely, with early signs resembling flu-like illnesses, including sore throat, fever, headaches, and skin rashes. Importantly, a person can be asymptomatic for 10-15 years while still being contagious.
To combat the spread of HIV, Dr. Agaeva recommends regular testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, especially for those with multiple partners. In monogamous relationships, annual testing suffices. She also emphasized the importance of using barrier contraception with untested partners, as the window period for HIV can range from weeks to up to a year, during which tests may not detect the virus.
Dr. Agaeva reassured that individuals on antiretroviral therapy do not transmit the virus and do not progress to AIDS, underscoring the importance of treatment for both personal health and public safety.
