World Aids Day 2024: Prevent HIV, follow these critical tips for safer sex, healthier life

HIV prevention tips: Consistent and correct use of condoms (both latex and non-latex options) during every sexual encounter helps block the exchange of bodily fluids, effectively reducing the risk of HIV transmission (Image: Canva)

Today is the World AIDS Day, a day that serves as a reminder of the ongoing global fight against HIV/AIDS.

In times where modern dating apps and online interactions have transformed how people meet and connect, the risks associated with HIV transmission are changing as well. Experts believe that effective prevention methods can help reduce transmission rates and may lead to the end of the HIV epidemic.

The fight against HIV is far from over. Prevention is key to reducing transmission rates, and everyone has a role to play in ensuring safer communities, says Dr Monalisa Sahu, Consultant Infectious Diseases, Yashoda Hospitals, Secunderabad. “Through consistent condom use, access to PrEP, or harm reduction programs, education and awareness are the most powerful tools that help prevent HIV,” she says.

Also read | All about HIV infection: Causes, symptoms and treatment strategies

Dr Sahu shares the following to prevent HIV transmission:

• Use condom: Consistent and correct use of condoms (both latex and non-latex options) during every sexual encounter helps block the exchange of bodily fluids, effectively reducing the risk of HIV transmission.

• Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): A daily medication for individuals at high risk of HIV, such as those with HIV-positive partners or those who engage in high-risk sexual behaviours. When taken correctly, PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV by over 90 percent.

• Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): A 28-day course of antiretroviral medications taken after potential exposure to HIV, such as unprotected sex or needle-sharing. PEP must be started within 72 hours to be effective.

• Regular HIV testing: Knowing your HIV status through regular testing is vital for early treatment. People living with HIV who adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART) can achieve an undetectable viral load, which means they cannot transmit the virus ("undetectable = untransmittable" or U=U).

• Harm reduction for injection drug users: Programmes that provide clean needles, syringes, and education on safer injection practices reduce the risk of HIV and other infections like Hepatitis C among people who inject drugs.

• Education and awareness: Comprehensive education campaigns tailored to at-risk communities, such as the LGBTQ+ community and young people, can dispel myths, raise awareness, and promote safe practices.