HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), a condition that impacts the immune system and eventually causes death. The main goal of the HIV/AIDS Program is to slow the spread of HIV in Shasta County. This is accomplished by providing active HIV/AIDS surveillance, education and prevention activities, HIV counseling and testing, as well as partner counseling and referral services.
HIV is a virus that is found in the following body fluids:
- Blood
- Vaginal Secretions
- Semen
- Breast Milk
HIV is a virus that is transmitted in the following ways:
- Sex (oral, anal, vaginal)
- Syringes/needles Services Program (drug, tattoo, piercing)
- Blood transfusions, blood products or organ transplants prior to 1985
- Mother-to-baby (before, during, and after birth)
HIV infection can be prevented by:
- Protected Sex (condoms or latex barriers)
- Sex only with negative partner(s)
- Not sharing syringes for drugs, tattoos, or piercings (Syringe Services Program)
- Not sharing drug works (cottons, spoons, etc.)
HIV/AIDS Hotlines:
- National AIDS Hotline: 1(800) 342-AIDS (2437)
- Spanish AIDS Hotline: 1(800) 344-7423
- California AIDS Hotline: 1(800) 367-2437
