Myths about HIV/AIDS

In every culture, rumors and myths exist about HIV/AIDS based on fear, denial, or misinformation. Common misconceptions can hamper clients’ abilities to protect themselves from infection and may lead to increased stigma and prejudice against people with HIV.

It is important for health care providers to offer clients accurate information, and at the same time, respect clients’ beliefs and not make them feel inferior. For example, a provider could dispel a myth by telling a client: “I understand that you are afraid about getting HIV from using a public toilet. Many people share this concern, but using a toilet is NOT a way that HIV is transmitted. HIV CAN be transmitted in only three ways: through sexual contact, through blood contact, and through transmission from an HIV-positive woman to her baby.”

During a staff meeting, brainstorm a list of local myths and rumors about HIV/AIDS. Discuss ways to dispel each myth.

Examples of myths:

• You can get HIV from using an infected person’s utensils.
• AIDS is a disease that affects only homosexuals and sex workers.
• You can get infected with HIV from mosquito bites.