How can we prevent HIV?
Everyone has a role to play, regardless of their HIV status. There are highly effective steps all of us can take to prevent new HIV infections.
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What are effective ways to prevent HIV transmission?
Remember, condoms are also still a thing. They prevent HIV as well as many other sexually transmitted infections.
People living with HIV can take treatment as prescribed, which can suppress the virus to the point where it can’t be passed to sexual partners. 98% of people living with HIV in Ontario who are on treatment are virally suppressed.
People at high risk of being exposed to HIV through sex or drug use can take medication called PrEP. People who have had a recent high-risk exposure to HIV can take medication called PEP as soon as possible and no later than 72 hours after exposure.
If you inject drugs, use new needles and drug use equipment. Harm reduction programs across the province can provide these.
Are there situations that are higher risk?
There are some situations where you might have a greater chance of being exposed to HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
For example, having another STI, having multiple sexual partners, starting a new sexual partnership, having sex or using drugs while travelling (especially in places with high rates of HIV), and using drugs or alcohol to enhance sex can increase your risk.
But you can reduce these risks by using the effective prevention methods described under “What are effective ways to prevent HIV transmission?”.