Dear Counsellor,

I have a wife and a young baby in a rural parish but I work in the Corporate Area. I have several outside sexual relationships. I rotate my outside relationships so that I will have no obligations to any of these girls. I sometimes use condoms with my girlfriends, but I don't use condoms with my wife. One of my girlfriends is now very sick. I heard she has AIDS. Should I be worried? I am feeling fine, I am not sick. My baby is also healthy. As a matter of fact I can remember I only had sex with her without the condoms three times.

Concerned Husband.

Dear Concerned Husband,

It is possible for a person to become infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, from only one sexual encounter. You had unprotected sex (sex without the condom) with this woman on three occasions, which is enough time for you to become infected with HIV. The fact that you are not sick does not mean you are not infected with HIV. It is also possible for you to be infected and your baby is healthy. Remember, you cannot tell by looking if someone is infected with HIV. You should get tested as soon as possible. If you continue to have unprotected sex, you are not only putting your life at risk but also your wife and the other girls with whom you have sex. The more sex partners you have, the greater your chances of meeting someone who is infected with HIV. You are, therefore, at risk even when you use a condom every time you have sex because condoms can break if they are not used properly.

Did i get an AIDS test?

Dear Counsellor,

Can you tell me if I was tested for HIV when I went to the clinic last Monday? I went to the clinic because I have a rash on my hands and feet. The nurse took some blood from me. She told me she was testing it to see if I have syphilis. Several hours later, she came back and told me the test was all right. I was told to see the doctor and all he gave me was an ointment to rub on the affected area. Does that mean that I don't have HIV?

Barry.

Dear Barry:

Some people think they are tested for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, when they get routine blood tests. This rarely happens. Talk to your healthcare provider, ask what test was done. Do not assume the HIV test was done. It is very unlikely that you were tested for HIV during the visit. It is important for you to know that the HIV test is not usually done without the individual's knowledge and consent.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3764 or toll free at 1888-991-4444, or write to the AIDS Affair c/o the Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.