THE HIV/AIDS EPIDEMIC IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

HIV/AIDS first appeared in Canada in the early 1980s. On average, of the 11 Canadians who become infected with HIV every day, at least one is a British Columbian.

Understanding HIV and AIDS

HIV refers to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The virus attacks and weakens the immune system by destroying the cells that help your immune system to function.

Bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids or breast milk, can carry HIV, which can enter the bloodstream through any opening in your body. HIV is commonly spread by having unprotected sex. Sharing needles, or tatooing or piercing yourself with a used needle, are other ways HIV can be passed on. Less commonly, HIV can be spread by breastfeeding or by infected blood entering your body through a cut or bleeding gums. There is also a very small chance--about 1 in 900,000--of infection from a blood transfusion.

HIV testing during pregnancy is vital. HIV-positive women can pass on HIV to their fetus or baby while pregnant, giving birth or breastfeeding. Tests are available, at no cost, from your family physician, a walk-in medical clinic or public health unit. If you test positive for HIV, you will be offered medication to significantly reduce the risk of the HIV infection being passed to your fetus or baby.

Most people with HIV go on to develop AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). People living with AIDS suffer opportunistic infections and/or cancers that can cause long-term illness and, in many cases, death. There is, as yet, no cure for AIDS.

Trends in the Epidemic

• women, especially poor women who have less education or are sex trade workers or have a mental illness or misuse other substances or lack social support from family and friends;
• aboriginal people;
• youth, especially young gay men; and
• injection drug users.

The nature of the HIV/AIDS epidemic changes with time. For up to date reports on the epidemic, see the BC Centre for Disease Control Society website

Obtaining an HIV Test