AIDS stands for “acquired immune deficiency syndrome,” a fearsome plague which is caused by a newly discovered virus that destroys the body’s natural ability to defend itself against disease. Victims die because they can’t fight common diseases like pneumonia or cancer. Around the world, medical researchers are mobilizing against the deadly AIDS virus. AIDS is spreading every day. Think these things over, and act accordingly. Here are points to ponder to protect yourself from AIDS:
1. Sexual intercourse of any kind with a person infected with the AIDS virus may transmit the virus to you. There is no way you can tell if the person is infected. Even he or she may not know.
2. Short of sexual abstinence, the surest way to avoid AIDS is the use of condoms. If you really want to be sure you are not infected, get a blood test for AIDS.
3. What if you are married? Experts say if you have both been faithful at least five years, you should not worry.
4. Another common way to get AIDS is from a hypodermic needle soiled with contaminated blood. Victims are almost always intravenous drug addicts. Chances of contradicting AIDS from a blood transfusion are extremely rare. From donating blood, no chance at all.
5. The AIDS virus is not spread by what you eat or drink, by utensils or glasses, by shaking hands, by toilet seats, coughs, sneezes, social kissing, hugging, sitting or working next to person with AIDS.
6. Now that you know these basic facts, take due care. Change your habits or lifestyle, if need be. But don’t make AIDS worse. Don’t let it panic you.