Below are common misunderstandings and myths about HIV/AIDS

'HIV only happens to gay men / black people / white people /  young people / non-Christians, etc'  . . . This myth is false.  HIV is a blood related illness. That means that any person who does things to put him/her at risk can get the virus.

'HIV can pass through latex' . . . Some people have been spreading rumours that the virus is so small that it can pass through 'holes' in latex used to make condoms. This is untrue. Latex blocks HIV, as well as sperm - preventing pregnancy, too. What is true is that if the latex is broken, bodily fluids can pass through. That is why it is important to inspect a condom before using it.

'Sex with a virgin can cure HIV' . . . This myth is common in some parts of Africa, and it is totally untrue. The myth has resulted in many rapes of young girls and children by HIV+ men, who often infect their victims. Rape won't cure anything - and is a serious crime all around the world.

‘There are certain herbalists and witch doctors who know how to cure HIV’… This myth is common as well, and it is completely untrue. While there is a small chance that the practice of non-medical healing might help make a person feel better about his/her circumstances, the fact still remains that there is not a cure for HIV, and the best way to treat it is through the use of certified Antiretrovirals given to you by a doctor.

‘Both my partner and I have HIV, therefore we do not need to use a condom’…Untrue. Experts are seeing more and more incidences of re-infection, which makes HIV treatment even more difficult, and puts people at even greater risk of AIDS-related illnesses.

‘I have HIV, so I cannot have children’… This used to be true but not anymore. Women living with HIV can and do have families. While certain steps and precautions have to be taken, women can now have children who live free of HIV. There is also the option of adopting. There are so many children in the world who need good parents to take care of them, and nothing is stopping you from being a good mother.