• More than 1.2 million people in the U.S. are living with HIV.
• HIV can and does affect all people. Some populations and parts of the country have been more affected than others.
• While there is not yet a cure, HIV is preventable and treatable.

HIV treatment involves taking medication that reduces the amount of HIV in your body. HIV medication is called antiretroviral therapy (ART).

• There is no effective cure for HIV. But with proper medical care HIV can be managed.
• Most people can get the virus under control (suppressed) within six months.
• Taking HIV medication does not prevent transmission of other sexually transmitted diseases.

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication people at risk for HIV take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV. It’s estimated that it takes at least seven days for PrEP to reach high levels of protection in the body.

What if you’ve stopped seeing your health care provider regularly for HIV care or have stopped taking your medication? It’s important to return to care – even if you have to start seeing a new provider. Being in care and taking your HIV medication is the key to staying healthy. You can manage your HIV and live a long, healthy life with regular medical care and HIV treatment.

HIV stigma refers to negative attitudes, behaviors, and judgments towards people living with or at risk of HIV. It can negatively affect the health and well-being of people living with HIV by discouraging some individuals from accessing treatment and staying in care.

Connect with local resources for living a healthy life with HIV, including:

• Healthcare
• Medication
• Housing
• Transportation
• Testing and more