AIDS and HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).  HIV breaks down the immune system — our body's protection against disease. HIV causes people to become sick with infections that normally wouldn't affect them. AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV disease.

In the United States, more than 980,000 cases of AIDS have been reported to the government. About 40,000 women and men in the United States get HIV each year.

HIV is the most dangerous STD and it affects people of all ages. The estimated number of Americans with HIV/AIDS is about 1,185,000. Approximately 25% of them are unaware of their infection. Individuals can get HIV by sharing needles or by having unprotected sex with an infected person. Pregnant women with HIV can give the virus to their babies.

Common Symptoms*: 

• Unexplained weight loss, diarrhea, or lack of appetite.
• Fatigue.
• Persistent fevers or night sweats.
• Lightheadedness or headaches.
• A thick whitish coating of yeast on the tongue or mouth
• Severe or recurring vaginal yeast infections.
• Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Purplish growths on skin.

*There may be no symptoms for 10 years or more. 

Testing and Treatment: Testing for both HIV /AIDS is available at all PPWP health center sites. Please see Fees for Services on our website for more information about our sliding fee options.

Testing for HIV:  PPWP offers a conventional blood draw test.  Results from this test are available within 7-14 days.

Treatment for HIV and AIDS: While there is no cure or vaccine for HIV or AIDS, new drugs and research are making it possible for individuals with HIV and AIDS to live longer and healthier lives. PPWP will be able to connect you with the appropriate community resources and medical care providers.

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