You have been the victim of a violent crime. Besides dealing with your emotions, you must also make important decisions about your health. Like many rape victims, you may be concerned about diseases. This brochure will help answer some of the questions you may have and let you know where you can go for help or more information . Remember, you do not have to go through this alone.
Help is available.
AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. The disease is caused by HIV attacking and damaging the immune system which puts the person at risk for life-threatening infections and cancers. People infected with HIV or early stages of AIDS usually look and feel healthy and for years may not even know they are infected. Even though they don't look or feel sick, they can give the virus to others. HIV is not spread by casual contact.