AIDS

Click on images below for detailed AIDS facts and prevention information.

Be prepared. Your local Travel Clinic can help you plan for a safe and healthy adventure. What Is It? Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) HIV destroys cells in the body's immune system, crippling the defensive power of the body Eighty percent of all HIV-infected people acquire infection through sexual contact However, because of economic conditions in some developing countries there is also a significant risk of contracting HIV infection through blood transfusions and injections with contaminated needles that haven't been properly sterilized Where Is It? AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) are more common in developing countries and the international traveler should be very cautious about sexual contact Click to view current CDC disease maps. Prevention Tips Avoid casual sexual contacts Use latex condoms correctly with a vaginal spermicidal jelly for every sexual contact Never use needles and syringes used by other people Never use another person's razor, shaver or toothbrush Don't get tattoos or have any part of your body pierced If you need a blood transfusion, try to ensure the donor blood has been tested In non-emergency situations, request to be flown home if blood cannot be adequately screened before transfusion Available Immunizations There is currently no immunization available for prevention of AIDS To keep yourself safe, avoid casual sexual contacts and never share needles

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