LIVE UP - What's Up Now

In June, LIVE UP is launching two new HIV-testing focused television and radio public service announcements that will air across the Caribbean. LIVE UP wants to raise awareness of the importance of HIV testing as the only sure way to know your HIV status. We encourage you, your family and your friends to consider HIV testing as part of how you can LIVE UP in your own life, and communities. Click here to view the ads.

HIV /AIDS 101
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. HIV harms the body's immune system by attacking certain cells, known as helper T cells or CD4 cells, which defend the body against illness. Most people contract HIV through unprotected sex with a person who is infected, and through injection drug use. You can reduce your risk of becoming infected with HIV buy choosing not to have sex, using latex condoms and dental dams every time you have sex, and for potential injection drug users, by not sharing needles. You can also protect yourself and others by getting testing for HIV.

HIV IN THE CARIBBEAN - KEY STATISTICS

As of the end of 2006, an estimated 250,000 people were living with HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean.
The HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in the region is second only to sub-Saharan Africa and higher than the global prevalence rate.
Caribbean women account for half of adults estimated to be living with HIV/AIDS in the region and young people are at particular risk. Approximately 1/3 of people living with HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean are between the ages of 15 and 24 with young women comprising more than 2/3 of infected youth.

THE FACTS ON HIV TESTING - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The only way to know for sure whether or not you are infected with HIV is to get an HIV test! You cannot tell by looking at someone if he or she is infected with HIV.
There are several different types of approved HIV tests, including blood tests, oral fluid tests, and urine tests. Some tests, called rapid tests, can provide results within 20-30 minutes. The availability of HIV testing and these different kinds of tests will vary depending on where you live.
Many clinics offer free or low-cost testing for HIV and other STDs. Call ahead to confirm.
Many people assume that their health care provider will test them for HIV as a part of a routine physical. Unless you ask, you can't be sure you are being tested.
It can take some time for the immune system to produce enough antibodies for HIV tests to be able to detect them, and this time period can vary from person to person. Most people will develop detectable antibodies within three months, but it can take longer, including up to six months in some cases. This time period is known as the "window period", when an individual may be infected with HIV, but may not yet test positive.

WHY GET TESTED?
It is important to get tested for HIV because testing is the only way to know for sure if you or your partner is infected. You cannot tell if someone is infected by looking at them. Get tested together! By knowing each other's status, you will eliminate any uncertainty and worry. If either of you does have an STD or HIV, you'll want to discuss how to prevent the other person from getting it. Your health care provider can help you answer these questions. Also, if you do test positive, it's important to get diagnosed early because early diagnosis and treatment for HIV helps delay the onset of AIDS and can help you to live a long, healthy life. We encourage you to consider routine HIV testing as part of how you can LIVE UP in your life - it's called peace of mind!

WHERE TO GET TESTED
Check out the Resources section of our site for a country by country listing of organizations and websites that offer information on HIV and where to go to get tested.

IN YOUR COMMUNITY - WHAT YOU CAN DO
Educate yourself and talk openly about HIV/AIDS with your friends, family, partners, community, and get tested! Encourage partners to do the same. Check out the Resources section of this website for a listing of local organizations that offer information about HIV/AIDS and where to go to get tested.