Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV may be passed when infected blood, semen or vaginal secretions come in contact with an uninfected person's broken skin or mucous membranes. In addition, babies born to HIV positive mothers can be infected during pregnancy, in the birth canal or through breastfeeding. Some HIV positive people, especially those who are undiagnosed and untreated, will develop AIDS as a result of their HIV infection. AIDS is the final stage of the HIV infection. People with AIDS have progressively weakened immune systems and are at greater risk for developing serious and potentially fatal infections, called opportunistic infections.
Today, people who are infected with HIV are living longer, healthier lives as a result of developments in medicine and care. There are many support systems and healthcare options available that help those who are living with HIV manage the disease.
The Impact of HIV
Around 40,000 people in the United States become infected with HIV each year. In Missouri, around 10,000 people are living with HIV, with 500 new infections reported each year. People of color, particularly Black Americans and Latinos, are disproportionately affected and have some of the highest infection rates. Young adults, men who have sex with men, those who inject drugs and women represent other populations at great risk of infection.
Our department has a broad array of programs and services to help meet the needs of individuals and communities affected by HIV and AIDS. These programs focus on preventing the spread of HIV, counseling and testing people at high risk, and caring for people living with the disease. Through strong partnerships consisting of federal, state and local government agencies, and community-based organizations and volunteers, Missouri is actively engaged in ending the HIV epidemic.
If you have HIV, you should see your doctor regularly in order to monitor your health. Your doctor may prescribe medications called antiretrovirals in order to improve and sustain your health and boost your immune system. You will also need to learn ways to improve your health through diet, stress reduction and exercise.
University of Missouri’s Show-Me ECHO program has created an ECHO that will educate and train healthcare professionals in multidisciplinary approaches to evidence-based HIV care and prevention.