About HIV and AIDS

Together, we can end the HIV epidemic in Austin.

We can help you connect with free or low-cost treatment options.

Undetectable means untransmittable.

Together, we can end the HIV epidemic in Austin.
We can help you connect with fee or low-cost treatment options.
Undetectable means untransmittable.

Understanding HIV and AIDS

HIV

HIV stands for “human immunodeficiency virus.” As the name suggests, it’s a virus that attacks your immune system and makes you vulnerable to other types of infections and diseases.

You can get HIV by coming into contact with certain types of bodily fluids from someone who is infected with the virus. This usually happens through sex or by sharing needles.

When HIV goes untreated, it can lead to the disease AIDS. While there is no cure for HIV, there are effective treatments that reduce the amount of HIV in the body to undetectable levels. When this occurs, HIV can no longer be transmitted through sex. And most important, a long, healthy life becomes possible.

AIDS

AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, 
is the disease caused by HIV. AIDS usually only occurs when an HIV infection goes untreated, and the individual’s immune system has become badly damaged.

Without HIV treatment, the life expectancy of someone with AIDS is usually only three years. If they develop an opportunistic infection (such as pneumonia or COVID), that can drop to just one year.

But even at this stage, beginning HIV treatment can be lifesaving. The important thing to remember is that treatment is more effective the earlier it begins.

My journey has been a rollercoaster. But I am living with it, and I am able to live a healthy life. – Kristina M.

What’s the difference between HIV and AIDS?

HIV

  • human immunodeficiency virus
  • transmitted through certain body fluids
  • if untreated, can lead to AIDS

AIDS

  • acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
  • makes body vulnerable to other types of infections
  • treatment can still be effective

Getting tested

Knowing your status is the best way to stay healthy. And the only way to know your status is to get tested regularly.

According to the CDC, you should get tested at least once a year for HIV if:

  • You’re a man who has had sex with another man
  • You’ve had anal or vaginal sex with someone who has HIV
  • You’ve had more than one sex partner since your last HIV test
  • You’ve shared needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment
  • You’ve exchanged sex for drugs or money
  • You’ve been diagnosed with or treated for another sexually transmitted disease
  • You’ve been diagnosed with or treated for hepatitis or tuberculosis (TB)
  • You’ve had sex with someone who has done anything listed above or with someone whose sexual history you don’t know.

If you’re gay or bi and sexually active, you should get tested every 3 to 6 months.

Even if you’re in a monogamous relationship with your partner, both of you should get tested to ensure you know your status.

Where to Get tested:

  • On-site testing at a clinic or wellness center
  • Mobile testing or a testing at a pop-up location
  • At-home testing with a kit you order online or get at a pharmacy

Find HIV testing locations and options in the Austin area.

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and options

Commonly Asked Questions

HIV is transmitted by coming into contact with certain types of bodily fluids (semen, anal and vaginal secretions, blood, or breastmilk) from someone who is infected with the virus. You can get HIV from:

  • vaginal or anal sex without a condom
  • sharing drug injecting equipment
  • sharing sex toys
  • coming into contact with HIV-infected blood (i.e. through a wound)

Mothers can also transmit HIV to their children during pregnancy. It’s also important to understand how HIV is NOT transmitted. You cannot get HIV from:

Preventing the spread of HIV starts with protecting yourself:

  • Use a condom (and use it correctly) every time you have sex.
  • Don’t inject drugs. If you do, always use sterile needles and equipment.
  • If you don’t have HIV, talk to your doctor about getting on a regular schedule of PrEP medications.
  • If you do have HIV, take antiretroviral therapy (ART) medications as prescribed by your doctor.
  • If you’re thinking about getting pregnant, talk to your doctor about your HIV status (and that of your partner) to ensure you can take the right medicines to keep your baby protected.

Currently, there is no cure for HIV or AIDS. And there is no vaccine that can prevent HIV infection.

However, today’s antiretroviral therapy (ART) medicines have made living a long and health life a possibility for HIV+ individuals. By reducing a person’s viral load to undetectable levels, ART drugs enable their immune system to function normally and fight off opportunistic infections.

While a cure or vaccine may still be years or decades away, we can all take steps today to promote HIV education, testing, and treatment.

Ending the HIV epidemic starts with U!

Local resources

Counseling & Testing

The RBJ Health Center is part of Austin Public Health and offers a variety of services, including counseling, education, and HIV testing and screening.

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Prescription Assistance

If you need help getting and paying for your prescribed medications, there are local resources available to help.

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Peer Support Group

Any journey is easier when you’re supported by people who’ve made it themselves.

learn more

Local resources

Counseling

The CARE counseling program can help you cope with the stresses of living with HIV.

learn more
Prescription Assistance

If you need help getting and paying for your prescribed medications, there are local resources available to help.

learn more
Peer Support Group

Any journey is easier when you’re supported by people who’ve made it themselves.

learn more