HIV, or the human immune deficiency virus, is the virus that causes AIDS (Auto Immune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV can only be transmitted through blood, contaminated needles or sexual contact. Because AIDS can be deadly and can be spread from person to person---many people in society tend to place a stigma on those who carry the virus and the disease. There are several social effects that are directly related to those who suffer from the illnesses.
Casual Contact
Many people who live with AIDS or HIV also have to live with the stigma of how other people may treat them. This may stem from certain individuals not being completely educated on the basics of the disease or the virus. Many people avoid people known to be infected with the illness out of fear that they may contact the disease. HIV and AIDS cannot be transmitted through casual contact. This means shaking hands, kissing, hugging, touching door handles, sharing food and sitting in the same room as someone with the virus are all perfectly safe.
Employment
Some people who disclose to their future or present employer that they are HIV positive or carry the AIDS virus may be discriminated against. They may be told they will not be hired or they will be let go for a reason that can not be supported or backed up. However, people with HIV or AIDS are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. If someone who feels they have been discriminated against, they should contact the ADA or the Job Accommodation Network to seek help and assistance with their specific matter. A complaint must then be filed, and a thorough investigation will be conducted. The only way an employer could choose not to hire them legally is if they feel they may be a clear risk to others---especially if the job involves direct patient contact care such as phlebotomy, surgery or dialysis. Even if there is a clear explanation, a discrimination case could still be filed against the employer.
Sports
Someone with HIV or AIDS has the right to play team sports and compete with other athletes. While an athlete should not hold back information that they may be HIV positive or have AIDS---they are also protected under HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). One of the rules that apply to AIDS patients would be that their medical information is confidential between them and their doctor. In the case of sports, the person has the option to release medical records to the coach if they are requested.
One reason many teams have their own sports physicals is so that they can access the health of the players. However, the coaches nor other medical staff have legal authority to give personal medical information out to the public or to anyone but the player without their consent. Many athletes may have a social label placed on them if other players or even the coach know they have AIDS or HIV.
Appearance
Especially in cases where HIV has developed into AIDS, physical characteristics can be prevalent. Visible weight loss can occur. Some patients may appear to be drawn in the face or have a pale complexion, and sometimes skin lesions can occur on areas of the body such as the face, neck, arms and legs. Areas of thrush can also appear on the tongue or inside of the mouth. Physical signs that alter the appearance can have an impact on sufferers because others may be judgmental or hesitant to approach.
Relationships
One important social effect of HIV and AIDS is relationships. When someone is carrying the disease it can be difficult for them to start new relationships and, in some cases, maintain existing ones. Having the disease means they cannot have intercourse with anyone else unless they wear protection---but even then it is a grave risk of possibly passing the virus to someone else. Many people also may sever their ties with someone who is sick because of the emotional strain it causes on the relationship. If you or someone you know has HIV or AIDS---find support by contacting the National AIDS Hotline at 1-800-342-AIDS.
