Departments

Links of Interest

HIV/AIDS Questions & Facts

What is HIV/AIDS?

HIV is Human Immunodeficiency Virus.  A virus is a very tiny germ that can cause sickness.  The HIV virus is what causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

It is passed through blood, semen, vaginal fluids and breast milk.

AIDS and the Native American

You may think that only certain people get AIDS, like Caucasians, gays and drug users, and that you, as a Native American, will never come into contact with the disease.

But...the truth is...anyone can get AIDS.

AIDS is everyone's problem, including Native American's.  Many of our people have become infected and die, both in the cities and on reservations.

We must all learn how to protect ourselves and our tribe against this deadly disease.

People who practice "high risk behaviors" are the ones who usually get infected with AIDS and then spread it to others through that same behavior.

Protect Yourself!

If you have sex, using a latex barrier such as a condom (rubber) or dental dam is the best way to protect yourself from STD's (Sexually Transmitted Diseases), including HIV and AIDS Limit your number of sexual partners.  Do not share needles for drugs, body piercing or tattoos.  If you do share, clean the needles with bleach and water.

While drinking or using drugs does not cause AIDS, getting high can affect your ability to make decisions and can lead to high risk behaviors.