You must take precautions to avoid contracting the disease by avoiding certain behavior that spreads it, such as intravenous drug use and unprotected sexual intercourse. Some infected individuals have no symptoms for ten years or more. The symptoms of AIDS are the same as symptoms of a number of other diseases. As with any disease, if you suspect that you are ill, seek immediate medical attention. If you know you are HIV positive, you should talk to your physician before traveling abroad.
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The link between intravenous drug use and AIDS has been well documented, but recreational drug and alcohol use can impair judgment and increase the possibility of high risk sexual behavior. Drug and alcohol use can cause suppression of the immune system in healthy or infected persons. Any vaginal, anal or oral sex can spread the HIV virus. If you simply must have sexual intercourse, use a condom every time, from start to finish. Both men and women should carry their own condoms.