Sunday Times (Johannesburg) - Sunday 01 December 2002

There is no cure for Aids. We know this. Even though there are drugs that can extend the lives of HIV-positive people, not many in South Africa can afford them and these drugs are not yet available at government clinics. But being HIV-positive doesn't mean it's the end of your life. There are many HIV-positive people who go on to do exciting things they never thought they'd do. Often the idea that they might die gives people remarkable courage and determination to make the most of their lives, so don't give up on yourself!

I'M HIV-POSITIVE. I MAY AS WELL COMMIT SUICIDE!

Coming to terms with being HIV-positive is not easy, especially if you're scared to tell your friends and family. Many people have the wrong idea about HIV/Aids and they feel very lonely. Luckily, there are people who understand and will help you. If you don't have anyone to talk to, speak to a counsellor, join a support group or call thethajunction on 0800 121 900.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO LIVE POSITIVELY?

HIV-positive people who take good care of their bodies, are fit and get immediate care for secondary infections can stay healthy for a long time without developing full-blown Aids. This is called "living positively".

HOW DO I LIVE POSITIVELY?

Here are some ideas:

Eat a balanced diet. HIV weakens the immune system so it's important to replace lost vitamins and minerals. A positive diet should be high in proteins (meat, fish, eggs, nuts), carbohydrates (pap, potatoes, rice, bread), fresh fruit and vegetables.

Get physical. One of the best ways to boost your immune system is to be physically fit. Start walking or jogging, do aerobics - whatever takes your fancy - but try to keep yourself in good physical shape by developing an exercise programme and sticking to it.

Care for your feelings. When you feel scared or depressed, talk to someone. There are Aids helplines (call the Aids Line on 0800-012-322)

Support your immune system. Keep it strong by avoiding alcohol, smoking, stress and people who have flu, colds and other infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections. Go to your clinic or doctor for regular check-ups and stay in touch with your health. Treat any illness immediately.

Always practise safe sex. You have a moral responsibility to tell your sex partners you are HIV-positive and to ALWAYS use protection. Just because you already have HIV does not mean you can't be re-infected. If you are re-infected with HIV, you will likely experience a more rapid deterioration in your health and more quickly progress to full-blown Aids. Don't weaken your body by getting more infections, including HIV, from your sexual partners. Use condoms.

DO I HAVE TO TELL PEOPLE THAT I'M HIV-POSITIVE?I DON'T THINK I'M READY FOR THAT YET.

If you plan to have sex with someone you should care enough about them to recognise you have a moral obligation to reveal your HIV status. If you are not ready for this, then don't have sex. Knowingly putting somebody at risk of contracting HIV is a criminal offence under South African law. But there is no reason for you to reveal your HIV-status in other social circumstances until you are ready and comfortable to do so.

THERE ARE DRUGS THAT CAN CURE AIDS - WHAT'S THE WORRY?

There is no cure for Aids. Drugs called antiretrovirals can extend the healthy lifespan of HIV-positive people, but there are concerns about the long-term side-effects of these drugs and the emergence of drug-resistant strains of HIV. Antiretrovirals are expensive, even though some drug companies have reduced the price. Most South Africans can only get them through private doctors as they are generally not available at government clinics or hospitals.

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Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2002. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

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