0.1 Hiv-aids basics for teachers

Frequently asked questions

Here are several questions often asked about HIV and AIDS. We will address these questions through this course. We have alsoprovided a good overview: Facts and Myths About AIDS, which can give teachers a good grounding on the subject.

PDF Version below:

Facts and Myths About AIDS

This information, in poster form (tested successfully in Uganda) answers some of the questions below:

Questions :

• What is HIV?
• What is AIDS?
• How quickly do people infected with HIV develop AIDS?
• How many people are affected by HIV/AIDS?
• How is HIV transmitted?
• How is HIV not transmitted?
• How can I reduce my risk of becoming infected with HIV through sexual contact?
• How can I avoid acquiring HIV from a contaminated syringe?
• Is there a link between HIV and other STDs?
• Are there other ways to avoid getting HIV through sex?
• Are some people at greater risk of HIV infection than others?
• Are women especially vulnerable to HIV?
• Are young people at significant risk of HIV infection?
• Are there treatments for HIV/AIDS?
• Is there a cure for AIDS?
• Is there a vaccine to prevent HIV infection?
• Can you tell whether someone has HIV or AIDS?
• How can I know whether I'm HIV-infected?
• Should I get tested?
• How can I get tested?
• Where can I get more information about HIV and AIDS?
• How can I help fight HIV/AIDS?

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Useful resources for teachers on hiv and aids

Common Questions About HIV/AIDS

(online only - U.S. focused) Full Manual on HIV-AIDS (with pictures): This manual describes the symptoms as well as treatmentsin a language clear and simple enough for all to understand. Basic Knowledge on HIV-AIDS/STD This site was developed by UNESCO and includes informationfrom which students can be quizzed to judge their knowledge of the subject.

Children orphaned by HIV/AIDS : Strategies for Hope: (online only) An excellent model that encourages community mobilization around HIV/AIDS (i.e. to getpeople involved in HIV/AIDS prevention and care efforts) They use the Stepping Stones community training curriculum. National and Regional NGOlinks (country by country): This is a good source to find out what is happening in HIV-AIDS education around the world.

Additional Resources (PDFs)

AIDS Basics

More Basic Knowledge

Hiv

HIV is a virus. Illnesses caused by a virus cannot be cured by antibiotics. (Although medicines may help to reduce the symptoms)People who have a virus - such as a cold - usually get better after a few days or weeks because the white blood cells of the immune system - which areresponsible for fighting diseases - successfully overcomes them.