01/12/2025
HIV PREVENTION TIPSπ¨πΏβπ¬π¨πΏβπ¬π¨πΏβπ¬π¨πΏβπ¬ππΏππΏππΏ
1. *Use condoms correctly* β Always use a new, lubricated condom for every s*xual act (vaginal, a**l, or oral). Make sure itβs put on before any contact and taken off carefully afterward.
2. *Get tested and know your status* β Regular HIV testing (and testing for other STIs) helps you know your status and get treatment early if needed. Encourage partners to test too.
3. *Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)* β If youβre at high risk (e.g., multiple partners, partner with HIV, or inconsistent condom use), talk to a healthcare provider about daily oral PrEP (e.g., Truvada) or newer options like long-acting injectable PrEP.
4. *Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)* β If you think youβve been exposed to HIV (e.g., unprotected s*x or needle-sharing), seek medical care within 72 hours to start PEP, which can prevent infection if taken promptly.
5. *Avoid sharing needles or sharp objects* β If you use injectable drugs, always use sterile needles and never share equipment. Needle-exchange programs can help reduce risk.
6. *Limit risky behaviors* β Reducing the number of s*xual partners and avoiding alcohol or drugs that impair judgment can lower your risk.
7. *Vertical transmission prevention* β Pregnant women living with HIV should receive antiretroviral therapy (ART) to keep viral loads undetectable, which greatly reduces transmission to the baby. Delivering under medical guidance and avoiding breastfeeding (where safe alternatives are available) also helps.
8. *Stay informed on new prevention tools* β Vaccines (like the recent mpox vaccine) and advancements in long-acting prevention methods are evolving. Keep up with credible health updates.
*Quick tip:* Consistent and correct use of condoms remains one of the most effective ways to prevent HIV and other STIs. If you need help accessing condoms, testing, or PrEP/PEP, let me knowβI can point you to local resources in Nigeria. γ