Frequently asked questions
Here are several questions often asked about HIV and AIDS. We will address these questions through this course. We have alsoprovided a good overview: Facts and Myths About AIDS, which can give teachers a good grounding on the subject.
PDF Version below:
This information, in poster form (tested successfully in Uganda) answers some of the questions below:
Questions :
- What is HIV?
- What is AIDS?
- How quickly do people infected with HIV develop AIDS?
- How many people are affected by HIV/AIDS?
- How is HIV transmitted?
- How is HIV not transmitted?
- How can I reduce my risk of becoming infected with HIV through sexual contact?
- How can I avoid acquiring HIV from a contaminated syringe?
- Is there a link between HIV and other STDs?
- Are there other ways to avoid getting HIV through sex?
- Are some people at greater risk of HIV infection than others?
- Are women especially vulnerable to HIV?
- Are young people at significant risk of HIV infection?
- Are there treatments for HIV/AIDS?
- Is there a cure for AIDS?
- Is there a vaccine to prevent HIV infection?
- Can you tell whether someone has HIV or AIDS?
- How can I know whether I'm HIV-infected?
- Should I get tested?
- How can I get tested?
- Where can I get more information about HIV and AIDS?
- How can I help fight HIV/AIDS?
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Useful resources for teachers on hiv and aids
Common Questions About HIV/AIDS
(online only - U.S. focused) Full Manual on HIV-AIDS (with pictures): This manual describes the symptoms as well as treatmentsin a language clear and simple enough for all to understand. Basic Knowledge on HIV-AIDS/STD This site was developed by UNESCO and includes informationfrom which students can be quizzed to judge their knowledge of the subject.
Children orphaned by HIV/AIDS : Strategies for Hope: (online only) An excellent model that encourages community mobilization around HIV/AIDS (i.e. to getpeople involved in HIV/AIDS prevention and care efforts) They use the Stepping Stones community training curriculum. National and Regional NGOlinks (country by country): This is a good source to find out what is happening in HIV-AIDS education around the world.
Additional Resources (PDFs)
More Basic Knowledge
Hiv
HIV is a virus. Illnesses caused by a virus cannot be cured by antibiotics. (Although medicines may help to reduce the symptoms)People who have a virus - such as a cold - usually get better after a few days or weeks because the white blood cells of the immune system - which areresponsible for fighting diseases - successfully overcomes them.