It’s no secret that AIDS is a life-threatening disease. Short for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, AIDS typically claims every infected life since there is no known treatment. Besides unsafe coital practices, one can contract AIDS in various ways, sometimes through no fault of their own. The illness first develops as the Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and later evolves into AIDS. This World Aids Day, let us educate ourselves about HIV/AIDS Prevention.

First observed in 1988, World AIDS Day falls on 1st December every year. This day is marked by spreading awareness about the issues surrounding HIV and AIDS. The objective of celebrating World AIDS day is to encourage people worldwide to take HIV prevention measures, get tested for the virus at least once a year, and improve HIV healthcare services. The theme for 2022 is "Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV".

Staying informed about HIV/AIDS fundamentals can help prevent the risk of this lethal illness.

AIDS generally results from unsafe sexual intercourse. Hence, it is imperative to follow certain precautions while engaging in sexual activity. This involves avoiding multiple partners to reduce the risk of contracting HIV. Also, consider intimate actions that limit the exchange of bodily fluids whenever possible.

If you are to engage in sexual activities that involve bodily fluids, ensure to use certain barriers like internal and external condoms. Using contraception prevents you and your partner from sharing bodily fluids carrying the HIV/AIDS virus. Consider using latex condoms for maximum protection.

The severe HIV symptoms take years to surface. It can be too late when you see the obvious signs. You can avoid this through regular testing. This practice is especially important when you are sexually active. Learning about the infection early on enables you to seek timely treatment and prevent the illness from spreading.

Doctors typically prescribe two kinds of medications to protect against AIDS infections. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medicine that helps reduce HIV exposure. In case of HIV exposure, doctors may prescribe post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). It helps to consult your doctor to understand safe sex practices before indulging in the activity.

Besides sexual contact, HIV infection transmits through shared needles. If you decide to get tattoos, piercings or injections, you must ensure that the administrators use clean and sterilized needles. This small precaution on your part helps avoid illnesses later.

Besides the preventive measures mentioned above, seeking financial protection to treat HIV/AIDS is also essential. Hence, various insurers in India offer health coverage to HIV/AIDS patients. The plans come with longer waiting periods (typically four years) as AIDS is deemed a critical illness. This type of health cover compensates you for the various medical expenses incurred on HIV/AIDS treatment up to the sum insured. Investing in health insurance helps avoid the sudden financial burden of treating the deadly disease.

This World Aids Day, ensure financial security by investing in a health insurance policy to treat an HIV/AIDS diagnosis.