Why Knowing the Facts of HIV Protects Your Health
Even after decades of progress in HIV prevention and treatment, misinformation still spreads faster than the virus. From fear-based rumors to outdated science, these myths create unnecessary stigma and stop people from getting tested, treated, or protected. At Health Stop STL, we believe knowledge is power, and breaking down HIV myths is part of caring for yourself and your community.
MYTH 1: You can tell if someone has HIV.
FACT: You can’t. Most people with HIV don’t show symptoms for years. That’s why regular testing is so important, especially if you’ve had unprotected sex, multiple partners, or shared needles.
MYTH 2: HIV and AIDS are the same thing.
FACT: HIV is the virus. AIDS is the most advanced stage of the infection. With proper treatment, many people with HIV never develop AIDS and live long, healthy lives.
MYTH 3: Only certain people get HIV.
FACT: HIV does not discriminate. It can affect anyone of any gender, sexual orientation, race, or background. Anyone can get HIV from unprotected sex, sharing needles, or during birth or breastfeeding.
MYTH 4: You can get HIV from kissing, hugging, or sharing a toilet.
FACT: HIV is not spread through casual contact. It is not transmitted through saliva, sweat, air, toilet seats, utensils, or bug bites.
MYTH 5: HIV is a death sentence.
FACT: Thanks to antiretroviral therapy (ART), people with HIV can live long and healthy lives. Effective HIV treatment helps lower the virus to “undetectable” levels, which makes it nearly impossible to pass to others.
MYTH 6: You don’t need protection if both partners have HIV.
FACT: Wrong. You can still get a different strain of HIV or other STIs, like syphilis or hepatitis C. Always use protection to protect your health.
MYTH 7: There’s no way to prevent HIV.
FACT: There are powerful prevention tools. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) can reduce the risk of HIV from sex by 99%. Condoms remain one of the most effective barriers against HIV and other STIs. Doxy PEP and HIV PEP can reduce STI risk after exposure. Ask us how to access these options at Health Stop STL.
MYTH 8: If your viral load is undetectable, you can stop taking meds.
FACT: Don’t stop your meds unless your provider tells you to. If you skip doses, your viral load can go up, which increases the risk of passing the virus and allows it to become resistant to treatment.
MYTH 9: There’s a cure for HIV.
FACT: There is no cure, but treatment is extremely effective. ART helps you stay healthy and reduces the risk of transmission. Stick to proven medical care—no herbal or home remedy can replace it.
MYTH 10: HIV treatment is too expensive.
FACT: Programs like Ryan White, Medicaid, and free services at Health Stop STL make testing and treatment affordable or free. No insurance? No problem. We’ll help you get what you need.
Know the Facts. Get the Care You Deserve.
Misinformation and believing HIV myths can stop people from getting tested, treated, or talking about HIV. At Health Stop STL, we offer:
- Free HIV and STI testing
- PrEP and PEP consultations
- Free condoms and Doxy PEP
- Judgment-free support and education
No shame. No stigma. Just real answers and free tools to protect your health. Visit Health Stop STL today and take charge of your future.
Sources:
https://aahivm.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cdc-pic-facts-and-fiction.pdf
https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/teach-me/busting-myths-with-facts-about-hiv-and-aids
