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HIV remains one of the most misunderstood health conditions even today. Decades-old myths—whether it’s the idea that HIV spreads through touch, that it affects only certain groups, or that herbal potions can cure it—continue to circulate widely. For this week’s Fact-check Friday, we spoke to Dr Neha Rastogi, Consultant, Infectious Diseases, Fortis Gurgaon, who breaks down the most common myths she still hears from patients—and what science actually tells us.
1. Are HIV and AIDS the same?
Myth: The terms HIV and AIDS mean the same thing.
Fact: HIV is a virus; AIDS is the severe, advanced stage that occurs only if HIV remains untreated.
“With timely antiretroviral therapy, most people with HIV never progress to AIDS,” Dr Rastogi explains.
2. Can HIV spread through hugging, kissing, food sharing, or mosquito bites?
Myth: Casual contact or insect bites can transmit HIV.
Fact: HIV cannot spread through everyday interactions or mosquito bites.
“The virus does not survive in mosquitoes,” says Dr Rastogi.
3. Does HIV affect only certain groups?
Myth: Only specific communities get HIV.
Fact: Anyone can acquire HIV.
“The virus doesn’t discriminate,” she stresses. Social factors—not biology—shape vulnerability.
4. Do HIV-positive partners still need protection?
Myth: If both partners have HIV, condoms aren’t needed.
Fact: Protection still matters.
Different HIV strains can complicate treatment, and condoms prevent other STIs.
5. Is HIV still a death sentence?
Myth: Life ends with an HIV diagnosis.
Fact: HIV is now a manageable condition.
“With regular ART, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives,” says Dr Rastogi.
6. Can herbal remedies cure HIV?
Myth: Natural cures can eliminate HIV.
Fact: No alternative therapy removes the virus.
Only antiretroviral medications can control HIV.
7. Can you identify someone with HIV by looking at them?
Myth: HIV has visible signs.
Fact: Many people look and feel healthy for years.
Testing is the only way to know.
8. Should women with HIV avoid pregnancy?
Myth: HIV-positive women cannot have children safely.
Fact: With proper treatment, most women deliver HIV-negative babies.
9. Is PrEP only for high-risk groups?
Myth: PrEP promotes risky behaviour and is meant for only a few.
Fact: PrEP is for anyone who wants added protection.
Studies show it doesn’t increase risk-taking.
10. If I feel healthy, can I assume I’m HIV-free?
Myth: No symptoms means no HIV.
Fact: HIV can remain silent for years.
Regular testing is essential.
11. Is oral sex risk-free?
Myth: Oral sex cannot transmit HIV.
Fact: Risk is low but not zero.
Mouth sores or STIs can increase the chance of transmission.
12. Is testing unnecessary in monogamous relationships?
Myth: Trust replaces testing.
Fact: Testing is still recommended.
Partners may have acquired HIV before the relationship began.
13. Should people with HIV avoid certain jobs?
Myth: HIV-positive people shouldn’t work in food service, childcare, or healthcare.
Fact: HIV cannot spread through normal workplace interactions.
Discrimination only fuels stigma.
14. Is breastfeeding always risky for HIV-positive mothers?
Myth: Breastfeeding should be avoided universally.
Fact: Recommendations vary by context.
Doctors weigh nutrition needs and access to safe alternatives.
15. Can withdrawal prevent HIV transmission?
Myth: Pulling out avoids exposure.
Fact: HIV can be present in pre-ejaculate.
Condoms and PrEP are far more effective.
16. Can tattoos and piercings transmit HIV?
Myth: Tattoo ink or piercings spread HIV.
Fact: Professional studios using sterile equipment are safe.
Risk comes only from reused or unsterile needles.
