Public Service Announcement re: HIV
I wanted to leave a PSA in TDS regarding HIV.
A friend of a friend recently tested HIV+ (it does not matter who). Like many others before them, they are upset.
Please remember that it doesn't matter who you are, you can still contract HIV, so for this very reason...
* Please, never re-use a needle, or any other injection equipment.
* Always use a condom during sexual intercourse. Many needle exchanges hand out condoms, and if you show up and only get condoms, no one is going to judge you. Many universities and colleges have student health services where they will also distribute condoms.
* The newest trends of HIV infection are amongst all types of women, as well as straight latinos. HIV is not a disease that only affects gays; this is a dangerous way to think about blood borne illnesses.
* If you suspect someone of having contracted HIV, please urge that they get free testing done.
* Finally, if you are HIV+, you can still live a long and healthy life. You can prevent HIV+ from causing AIDS. It will require vigorous medical treatment, but it doesn't mean you still won't have a generous quality of life.
If you still feel upset, understandably, please talk to loved ones about how you feel. There are help lines as well as fellow Bluelighters who have a lot of love in their hearts. Please talk to someone - it is never too late to.