You have access to the most significant advances in the treatments of the human deficiency virus (HIV) + acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) along with cutting-edge treatments right here at Tufts Medicine. While there is no cure for HIV, we work with you so that you can get back to living a longer and healthier lifestyle, in some cases, without evidence of the disease.
Providing all the medical services you need
Our community is close-knit, welcoming and private. Whether you are recently diagnosed with HIV or AIDS or have been living with it for some time, we treat you like family. We provide resources to support you at every stage of your diagnosis and help you determine the best care plan for your needs, including timing and frequency. Some risk factors for HIV or AIDS include unprotected sex, previous exposure to an STD or STI, drug use and babies born to mothers with HIV or AIDS.
Regular STI screenings and education are essential for prevention and treatment, even if you have no symptoms. It is essential to understand that HIV cannot be spread through casual contact such as kissing, hugging or sharing food. Only exposure to bodily fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluid, breast milk) from an infected person puts you at risk.
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Conditions
HIV is a disease that requires a lifetime of care, and we will be with you every step of the way, providing for all your HIV-related medical needs. We can also assist with education and the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for you or your loved ones. We will partner with you to determine what care you need, when and how often.
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)
HIV attacks the body’s immune system and interferes with its ability to fight infections and diseases. You may not show symptoms, but getting tested is the only way to identify the infection.
AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)
AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection that occurs when the body’s immune system is badly damaged by the virus.
Testing
The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. You should get tested if you have certain risk factors, are sexually active, have a suppressed immune system or solid organ transplant, think you have had an exposure or have shared needles or drug equipment. Testing for HIV is easy and involves 3 simple steps:
- Antibody test: blood or oral fluid
- Antigen/antibody test: blood in a lab or a finger prick for a rapid test
- Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs): blood tests that can detect HIV 10 - 33 days after exposure
Treatments
Living with HIV can be challenging, but there's hope. Thanks to significant advancements in treatments, patients with HIV can lead healthy lives. Our team understands the impact of this condition on your well-being, and we're here to support you every step of the way. We'll work closely with you to determine the best care plan, taking into account your unique needs and any complications. Our goal is to provide you with the highest level of care, from diagnosis to treatment, no matter how complex your case may be. Our specialists collaborate to make sure you receive all the necessary services at the right time. We'll be here for you, monitoring your response to treatment and providing extensive support in all areas, including:
- Clinical nutrition
- Infectious diseases
- Behavioral health
- Dental care
- Social work
- Integrative therapies such as acupuncture
- Vaccinations
We also provide screening and treatment of anal precancerous lesions caused by a sexually transmitted infection called Human papillomavirus (HPV).
FAQs
What is some of the misinformation surrounding HIV + AIDS?
HIV can only be shared from infected blood, semen, vaginal fluid or breast milk.
- You cannot tell if someone has HIV by just looking at them.
- HIV can affect anyone and not just people of certain sexual orientation
- You cannot get HIV if you use the same utensil or drink from a water fountain, hug, kiss or shake hands, or even using exercise equipment at the gym
- You cannot get HIV from insect bites
- Even if you are on HIV treatments, you still need to use protection when having sex
Can women who have HIV still get pregnant?
With proper treatment and the guidance of a specialist, HIV-infected women can still give birth without infecting their babies.
Our locations
From regular office visits to inpatient stays, find the healthcare you need and deserve close to home.
Our doctors + care team
Meet the doctors and care team devoted to supporting you every step of the way along your path to better health.