Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) weakens the body’s immune system by attacking cells that fight infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Though there is no cure for HIV, there are many things you can do to keep yourself healthy and prevent transmission.
HIV/AIDS Resources
Just the Facts: HIV/AIDS
Get tested! The CDC cautions that some people may experience flu-like symptoms within 2-4 weeks after contracting HIV, but others may be asymptomatic. Knowing your HIV status provides you with important tools and information to keep yourself and those around you healthy. To learn more about testing you can:
- Visit gettested.cdc.gov to find a testing site closest to you. You can also talk to your doctor about testing.
- Call 800-541-AIDS (or 311 if you’re in NYC)
- Visit HIVtestNY.org for additional resources on HIV and local testing centers.
There are numerous ways to stop the spread of HIV. The CDC’s HIV Prevention page and the New York State Department of Health have outlined several resources and tips.
- Use condoms correctly every time you have sex. Learn the right way to use a male condom and a female condom. New Yorkers can request free condoms through the statewide HIV/STI/HCV hotline by calling 800-541-2437 or visiting nyaidsline.org.
- Consider pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) – the antiretroviral medication is used by people without HIV who are at risk of being exposed to the virus to prevent its acquisition. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an emergency medication that can be taken within 72 hours after possible exposure to HIV. Learn more about PrEP here.
- Never share needles or syringes. New York State’s Expanded Syringe Access Program (ESAP) allows for people who are 18 years or older to obtain hypodermic needles and syringes without a medical prescription.
People living with HIV or AIDS can take steps to manage their condition and life a healthy life. People living with HIV should:
- See their primary care provider (PCP) or HIV/AIDS specialist at least every six months.
- Have their viral load checked a few times a year. Talk to your PCP about how often you should take a viral load test.
- Receive other tests and immunizations as recommended by your care team.
Not knowing the facts about HIV may lead to discrimination. People with HIV and their allies can combat this by talking openly about HIV to help normalize the subject and provide correct information. The CDC’s Let’s Stop HIV Together resource page features a language guide that encourages people to use supportive words and phrases when talking about HIV/AIDS.
If you think your rights have been violated because of your HIV/AIDS status or because someone has suspicions about your HIV/AIDS status, even if they are not true, you can file a complaint with the Americans with Disabilities Act at ADA.gov. There are also numerous hotlines available to help file a complaint:
- Legal Action Center: 212-243-1313
- New York State Division of Human Rights: 888-392-3644
- New York City Commission on Human Rights: 212-306-7450
- New York State HIV Prison Hotline: 716-854-5469 (toll free)
- New York State Confidentiality Hotline: 800-962-3934
EmblemHealth HIV/AIDS Case Management
The EmblemHealth HIV/AIDS Case Management program can help you find community-based resources and navigate the health care system. The program can help you take charge of your own health by connecting you with the right health care professionals and resources for you. This can ensure you get necessary medical services and teach you how to reduce high-risk behavior.
EmblemHealth members diagnosed with HIV/AIDS qualify to enroll in the HIV/AIDS Case Management program.
You can enroll or ask questions by calling our Case Management program at 800-447-0768, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Specially trained HIV case managers provide confidential disease-focused support to help members monitor their condition and maximize their health and wellness outcomes. Members will receive ongoing training and information on topics including:
- How to make good choices in their everyday lives.
- How to access anonymous and/or rapid testing for sexual partners.
- How the law protects personal and confidential health information.
- Precautions they can take to keep themselves and others safe.
- Proper use of medicines, including dosage and side effects.
The New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute Clinical Guidelines are available online at Clinical Guidelines Program.
*Source: New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute