What does HIV mean?

HIV stands for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. If left untreated it often leads to AIDS: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, which can lead to death. However, there have been a lot of advances in medication. HIV is no longer the life-threatening condition it once was. With regular medication, most people should lead a normal length of life.

HIV and AIDS are now commonly grouped together as HIV/AIDS. This happened when the new medications were found to prevent AIDS related deaths. However in some cultures there has only ever been one word for both conditions. In Swahili (spoken in East Africa) the word used is “ukimwi”.
Anthea Morris, Better2Know and former Strategic Health Advisor in Tanzania

What does being HIV positive mean?

Being HIV positive means that you have the HIV virus. The number of people with HIV in the Middle East remains low. However, despite the relatively high levels of educational attainment, many people are not sure about how HIV is, and is not transmitted.

If you do have HIV, you will be helped with further tests to see how advanced the virus is. This will include a viral load and a CD4 count. You will also be advised to speak with a counsellor who can help you discuss any changes to your life, and how to tell your loved ones.

If you are not a national in the Middle East, you should also seek legal advice. Your residents permit is at risk if you are HIV positive, and it is advisable to make alternative plans and get advice.

Your doctor will then help you to find the right medicines for you. It is likely that you will have to take a pill every day for the rest of your life. There are lots of medicines available, so it should be possible to minimize the side effects. If one does not suit you, there are others to try.

HIV doctor — You should see your doctor regularly

Your doctor will want to see you regularly and perform more tests to check that the medicine is working as it should. Once your viral level is undetectable, you will not be able to pass the virus on. Undetectable is untrasmitable. You do need to continue to take your medication.

You should tell your new partners about your HIV status. This allows them to make informed choices about their own health. You counsellor will help you to find the right words.