I know I am are you?

Did you know there are over 21,000 HIV positive Californians as of September 30, 2007? well it’s true, according to the current California HIV Surveillance Report.

HIV is most prevalent amongst White people (49%), Hispanics (28%) and African Americans (18%), where in that community it is currently spreading rapidly at a disproportionate rate. Of course it’s not demographics that is the cause of transmission, it’s a persons behaviors that ultimately put them at risk for contracting the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

74% of total cases accounted for in california are men who have sex with men(MSM). although unprotected anal or vaginal sex and sharing needles for injection drug use are considered higher when talking about exposure, sharing tattooing needles/ink and unprotected oral sex on men OR women are still considered risky behaviors when engaging in them with a person who is HIV positive, included are those who choose not to disclose, as well as those who are NOT aware of their current status.

Out of the 1 million HIV infected individuals in the
united states it is estimated 25% are unaware of their status. Don’t just assume you are HIV negative, KNOW it.