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HIV/AIDS Prevention Program
HIV/AIDS is a reportable disease under the Communicable Disease
Law of Pennsylvania. The Bethlehem Health Bureau serves as
the Local Morbidity Reporting Office for the City of Bethlehem.
Since 1981 to current a total of 501 cases have been reported
to us. The Bethlehem Health Bureau program reduces the barriers
to information about prevention, behavior modification and
treatment
FAQ's about HIV and AIDS
What is HIV? HIV is the virus that causes
AIDS. HIV attacks the immune system and destroys its ability
to fight infections. AIDS is when the immune system becomes
so weak it can no longer defend the body against certain illnesses.
What fluids transmit HIV? Blood, Semen, Vaginal Fluid,
and Breast Milk.
How is HIV spread? Having sex (anal, oral or vaginal)
with an infected person, sharing drug injecting equipment
or other used needles with an infected person, and mothers
infecting their babies in the womb, at birth or during breastfeeding.
How is HIV NOT spread? Someone sneezing or coughing
on you; hugging or kissing someone (casual contact), being
bitten by a mosquito, donating blood at a blood bank, contact
with saliva, sweat, urine or tears.
How can I protect myself? Do not reuse or share needles
for shooting drugs, body piercing, or tattooing; if you inject
drugs, use a new needle each time; if you cannot use a new
needle each time, clean your needle with bleach and water
between each use; abstain from sexual intercourse (anal, oral,
vaginal); if you choose to have sexual intercourse, use a
condom every time; maintain a disease-free monogamous relationship;
learn your and your partner's HIV status.
If you have any further questions or feel you may be at risk,
contact the Bethlehem Health Bureau at (610) 865-7058 to speak
with an HIV specialist confidentially. Free and confidential
HIV testing is available at 10 E Church Street., Bethlehem,
Mondays and Fridays 1-3 p.m.; no appointment is necessary.
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