HANS: HIV/AIDS Network of Sarasota
Services

Peer Navigator Program
 
 
 

Prevention
 
Prevention 

 

One very important tool in the fight against HIV/AIDS is prevention.  Three simple steps you can take to prevent yourself from contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, are known as the ABCs of HIV Prevention. 

ABCs of HIV Prevention

A = Abstinence

B = Be in a monogamous relationship

C = Condoms (use one every time you have sex to protect yourself and others.) 

Hepatitis Prevention

People living with HIV are at greater risk for contracting hepatitis.  Hepatitis comes in three forms and can be prevented.

> Learn more...

HIV Testing

Take control - take the test!  You can find places to get an HIV test here:


 

Condoms & The Condom Trail

 

Condoms can prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.   HIV affects everyone regardless of age, race, religion or creed-men and women, rich and poor, straight, gay, or bi-sexual.  The risk is higher for some groups than for others, but condoms are for everyone.  Twenty-five years into the AIDS pandemic, using a condom is still the most effective way for sexually active people to protect themselves. 

You are always safer using a condom!

Get FREE Condoms Here!

> View the Condom Trail Map

Get FREE condoms at these locations in our community.  HANS Members and local establishments created the Condom Trail, joining forces to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. 

Fewer Partners Means Less Risk
The more sexual partners you have, the greater your risk of getting HIV, or passing it to someone else.  If you are sexually active, mutual monogamy is the safest way to go. That means: 1) You are in a sexual relationship with only one person, and 2) Both of you are having sex only with each other. In addition, both of you need to be tested for HIV and other STIs before you have sex without a condom.

A word of warning
Condoms are highly effective in preventing most STIs, including HIV—but they will not protect you against all of them. You can get—or give—some STIs, like herpes or genital warts, even if you or your partner are wearing a condom. But condoms still significantly reduce your risk, even for those STIs.

Tips on using condoms:


Articles & Further Information