HIV and AIDS

What is HIV?

HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. When someone is described as living with HIV, they have the HIV virus in their body. Without medication, people with HIV can develop AIDS, but HIV and AIDS are not the same thing.

How is it passed on?

HIV can be passed on through infected blood, semen, vaginal or anal fluids, or breast milk.

Because of this, sex without a condom and sharing needles are the most common way HIV is spread. Protect yourself and always use protection during sex and never share needles or syringes.

Local support

If you have had unprotected sex or shared any kind of needle or syringe, and are concerned you may have HIV, please visit your nearest walk-in clinic to get tested.

Greenwich Sexual Health has more information and advice about local sexual health services.

Find out more about HIV and AIDS.