Nothing could be more true. Unfortunately that’s the way it is! But silence does not mean that this disease has disappeared. If anything it’s quite the opposite! Although in recent years it is spoken of less, it is very important to remain vigilant because this virus has not been eradicated. In Italy, it is estimated that there are between 108,000 and 156,000 cases of people with the HIV virus (HIV-positive) or with full-blown AIDS, including undiagnosed cases – 21% of all cases are women between 15 and 49 years of age. Very young girls (10-19 years) are the most vulnerable.
HIV infection causes a progressive weakening of the immune system (immunosuppression), increasing the risk of both cancer and infection by viruses, bacteria, protozoa and fungi, which under normal conditions can be cured.
After infection, it is possible to live for years without any symptoms, and find out only after the manifestation of a disease. HIV testing is, therefore, the only way to find out if you have been infected. For about thirty years, the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (National Institute of Health) has made a toll-free phone service available, 800861061, that answers all questions anonymously. Write it down.
