Did you know?
Not everyone who has HIV has AIDS
Many HIV infections are caused by people who are unaware that they have the virus, and this is why it’s recommended that you get tested. With a negative result you can take precautions to remain that way, with a positive result you can get the right treatment, right away.
GET TESTED
Your health is your responsibility. Get tested for HIV at a Phela Wellness day, or your local pharmacy or doctor. Protect your partner, keep yourself healthy, and enhance the quality of your life.
Empower yourself:
1. KNOW YOUR STATUS. Talk to your partner about HIV testing and ensure that you both get tested before you have sex.
2. LIMIT YOUR SEXUAL PARTNERS. If you have more than one sexual partner, get tested for HIV regularly and insist that your partners do too.
3. PRACTICE SAFE SEX. Use condoms to avoid spreading HIV, and also to protect both you and your partner against other sexually transmitted diseases.
4. DON’T INJECT DRUGS. You can become infected if you share needles, syringes, or other drug equipment with a person who is HIV positive.
Ways to help you control HIV
HIV MEDICATION
Control the level of HIV in your body by taking your medication exactly as prescribed. Skipping even one day of medication can give the virus an opportunity to become resistant to the drugs.
EXERCISE MIND AND BODY
Regular physical exercise keeps you physically fit and can keep both stress and depression in check. Doing a daily crossword puzzle can help maintain your cognitive health.
HEALTHY EATING
The keys to staying healthy with HIV are within your control. Live a healthy lifestyle. Fuel your body with a healthy, nutritious, and balanced diet.
SLEEP
When we don’t get enough, it puts a strain on the immune system. Allow your body to recharge and recover each night with at least 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep.
Anyone can contract HIV however, not everyone who has HIV will get Aids. Treat your body well to strengthen it, so that you can defend against illnesses that could threaten your life.
To learn more about Phela’s wellness solutions or access our products and services, contact Phela Wellness on 0800 2 B WELL (0800 22 9355) or visit www.phelawellness.co.za.
