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There's no shame in getting tested for HIV!

 

 

Getting tested for HIV puts you in control of your health and helps protect you and your community.

It’s important to be informed about HIV, how it’s transmitted, the importance of testing and knowing how to protect ourselves and others.

To get tested for HIV speak to your doctor, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service or visit a SHINE SA clinic.

For a list of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services visit the Members Directory.

  

 

 

What is HIV and how is it spread?

HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, which over time makes it harder to fight off other illnesses and infections. Treatment for HIV stops this from happening by reducing the amount of virus in the blood, and means that people living with HIV can live long, healthy lives.

HIV is spread in three main ways:

  • having sex without a condom
  • blood to blood contact (sharing injecting, tattooing or piercing equipment)
  • parent to child (during pregnancy, child birth or breastfeeding).

HIV can NOT be transmitted via other body fluids such as saliva, urine, sweat, etc. nor can it be transmitted by other types of casual contact (such as sharing cups, cutlery, toilet seats, etc.). If someone is on treatment for HIV and has an undetectable viral load, they can’t transmit the virus to other people.

We can make sex safer.

Safer in the sheets, safer in the streets.

Using condoms and lube is an easy way to help prevent HIV and take care of your sexual health.  

Get tested regularly for HIV and other STIs.

There is medicine that can prevent HIV. This is called PrEP and PEP. Talk to your health worker if you think you’re at risk of getting HIV.

Where can I learn more about HIV and STIs?

Learn more about STIs and BBVs from Young Deadly Free.
Visit: www.youngdeadlyfree.org.au/for-young-people/

Want to know how to get tested for STIs and what’s involved?
Visit www.shinesa.org.au/getting-an-sti-test

What if I think I’ve been exposed to HIV?

It’s a good idea to get in contact with the SA HIV PEP Hotline.

The South Australian HIV PEP hotline on 1800 022 226 is available 24 hours a day to help anyone who thinks they may have been exposed to HIV.

Want to share our message with others?

We can prevent HIV as a community. Follow the hashtag #NoShameInGettingTested and share the message.

To access the No Shame In Getting Tested resources and campaign materials, please contact [email protected]

This campaign is funded by Country SA PHN.