Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is passed from person to person primarily through unprotected sex and sharing of injection equipment and needles. A person can spread HIV to their baby during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding.
HIV transmission can be prevented through changes in behaviors. Sexually active people can reduce their number of sex partners or use condoms the right way every time. People who inject drugs can stop HIV transmission if they never share needles, syringes or injection drug equipment.
Today, medical treatment is part of HIV prevention too. People living with the virus who take their medications as prescribed and keep their viral load low (amount of HIV in the bloodstream) are highly unlikely to give the virus to their partners. In this same way, HIV-positive people can lower the chance of passing the virus to their babies during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding. There are medications for people who are HIV-negative that will lower their risk of infection. Keep reading for more information on HIV testing, prevention and ways to help stop the spread of HIV.
HIV Testing
We know that many HIV infections happen because people don't know they have HIV. For those who don't know their HIV status, testing is the first step in maintaining a healthy life and reducing the spread of HIV.
We strongly recommend that people who test positive for HIV enter medical care right away. When treatment is started early, people with HIV have better health outcomes. People who test negative may choose to make changes in behavior or take medication that can help them stay negative.
We recommend that all people who are sexually active get tested by their primary care provider. For people who would prefer another testing option, we offer free testing in community-based settings across Vermont.
- Free HIV Testing in Community-Based Settings
- Free HIV Testing in a Medical Setting
- Free Condoms
- Syringe Service Programs
Treatment as Prevention
Treatment for HIV includes anti-retroviral therapy (ART). This is medication people living with HIV take to stay healthy. These medications lower the amount of virus in the body, which keeps the immune system working and prevents illness.
Another benefit of lowering the amount of virus in the body is that it helps prevent passing the virus to others through sex, needle sharing, and from person-to-child during pregnancy and birth. This is called treatment as prevention.
Visit our HIV Care page for more information and resources about HIV medications and treatment.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is a prevention option for people who are at high risk of getting HIV. PrEP is not for everyone. It has been shown that PrEP works better with some people than others. It’s meant to be used regularly, as a pill taken every day, and to be used with other prevention options such as condoms.
Learn about preventing HIV with PrEP
Find information on Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
NOTE: The message at the top of certain CDC web pages regarding what the federal administration calls "gender ideology" does not reflect the views of the Vermont Department of Health. The Health Department will continue to collect data and share guidance for people of all identities to promote the physical, mental and social well-being of all people in Vermont.