The abbreviation HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus suppressing the immune system. AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is the final stage of HIV infection. It is a complex disease of an HIV-positive person occurring on the background of a suppressed immune system.

The virus can not be transmitted through:

1. Routine daily activities such as:
Using a toilet seat.
Sharing food utensils or drinking glasses.
Taking care of HIV-positive people.
Sweat and tears.
Air, including coughing or sneezing.

2. Communication:
Kissing.
Shaking hands, hugs, touching.
Joint sports or games.
Through the water while swimming.

3. HIV cannot be spread by insects or animals:
Stings or animal bites.
When caring for animals.

HIV is transmitted:

1. Through blood:
Sharing or re-using syringes, needles or other injecting instruments. As a rule, it occurs among injecting drug users when sharing injection instruments.
When using non-sterile medical instruments, as well as instruments for tattoo and piercing.
Using somebody else's razors, toothbrushes.

2. Having unprotected (without condom) anal, oral or virginal sex.

3. From HIV-positive mother to child during pregnancy, child birth or breastfeeding.

You may learn more about HIV / AIDS and life with HIV / AIDS via all-Ukrainian free hotline for HIV / AIDS   0-800-500-451  (anonymously, free)  as well as from our regional representatives.