What Is HIV/AIDS?

HIV is a virus that is believed to cause AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). This disease is very deadly and leads to many health problems including death. HIV can be transmitted in three ways:

• Unprotected (not using a condom) vaginal, anal and oral sex (note: using a condom greatly decreases the risk of getting HIV but does not eliminate it entirely)
• Direct blood contact, which may occur through needle sharing, transfusions, accidents in health care settings, or certain blood products
• Mother to baby; before or during birth or through breast milk

It is important that you do what to can to protect yourself and your family from this disease.

For more information on HIV/AIDS call the Minnesota AIDS Project's confidential AIDSLine at

• 612-373-2437