Get Informed

We provide HIV/AIDS education in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Our prevention team is available to speak at local schools, faith communities, businesses and community groups and can assist with planning health fairs, outreach initiatives and related civic activities. To schedule a speaker, call us at (727) 328-3260.

There are many ways you can stay safe and prevent HIV transmission. It is most commonly spread person-to-person through sexual contact (anal, vaginal or oral) or the sharing of injection drug needles or works (paraphernalia).

To protect yourself and others you should:

• Practice abstinence (do not have any type of sex at all). Abstinence is 100% effective in preventing HIV and other STIs.

• Practice mutual monogamy (agree to be sexually active with only one person, and that person agrees to be sexually active only with you). Reducing your number of sexual partners can decrease your risk for HIV. You should both still be tested for HIV and share your results with one another. You also should use condoms for further protection from HIV and other STIs.

• Use condoms. When used consistently and correctly every time you have sex, condoms are highly effective in preventing HIV and other STIs. Latex condoms provide the best protection. Polyurethane or plastic condoms are good options to use if you have latex allergies. Barriers, including condoms, dental dams or rubber latex sheets, are also good for protection during oral sex.
• Ask about PrEP Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is an approved combination of prescribed medications for individuals who are HIV-negative but at particularly high risk for contracting HIV. If taken consistently daily, the medications act as a shield to block the HIV virus.

• Do not share needles or drug works/paraphernalia.

• Get tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.