Yes, it is harder for men to contract HIV from women than vice versa. The reason for this is that the tissue of the penis is less absorbent (therefore less prone to absorbing the HIV virus) than the tissue of the vagina. However, some studies have shown that the risk of HIV transmission can increase by up to 60% for uncircumcised men (the skin under the folds of the foreskin is thinner and more absorbent than the skin on a circumcised penis). Unprotected anal sex (with a man or woman) represents a higher risk of HIV transmission than unprotected vaginal sex; the tissue in the anus is more absorbent than tissue in the vagina.

- NZAF official response

Hi. You can get a free and anonymous HIV rapid test (results in 20 minutes) at one of the three NZAF clinics located in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. We also contract counselors who can provide testing in other regions outside of these main centers. To book an HIV test through us, click the Get Tested icon at the top right of the NZAF website homepage; simply complete the form and someone will be in touch with you. Alternatively you can search the White Pages for your nearest sexual health clinic, who will also provide a free, anonymous test. It is important to bear in mind that there is a window period of up to 3 months after exposure to HIV before antibodies to HIV appear in the bloodstream (an HIV test tests for antibodies to HIV rather than HIV itself). Getting tested immediately after exposure may give a false negative result, so it is very important to have an HIV test at the 3 month period.

- NZAF official response

Hi. There is no chance of contracting HIV from a sterile HIV test kit. An HIV test will test whether a person has the HIV virus present in their bloodstream - the test kit itself does not contain the virus.
The NZAF strongly advise against using HIV home testing kits purchased from the internet, for two significant reasons; they aren't rigorously assessed and the results aren't always accurate. Plus, testing at home means you:

- don't have access to support from counsellors, either before or after the test
- will not have healthcare advice from professionals
- can't perform retesting if you receive positive results, which is standard at clinics so that you know for certain
- may not have legal recourse in the event of an incorrect reading
- may perform the test incorrectly

If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV in the last 3 months or more, book an appointment with your GP or local sexual health clinic, or come for an HIV test at one of our centres. It's safer and much more supportive; a healthier way both physically and emotionally, of getting tested. To book a test through us, click the 'Get Tested' icon at the top right of this screen.

- NZAF official response

Hi. HIV can only be transmitted via blood to blood contact, the exchange of bodily fluids through unprotected sex, sharing needles and through childbirth. HIV cannot be transmitted via skin to skin contact alone.

If the sensual massage extended to penile penetration and no condom was used, then this would represent an increased risk of exposure to HIV. If the massage was limited to surface rubbing and touching, and there was no unbroken skin on either person, then there would be no risk of HIV exposure.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. The latest published data on HIV among NZ sex workers was a study by the AIDS Epidemiology Group at the University of Otago in 2005/2006.

The study recorded that there was no HIV infection among the 298 females, 32 males and 13 trans-sexual sex workers who took part in the study. This is a relatively small sample group but these figures would suggest that HIV rates among sex workers in NZ is very low. The New Zealand Prostitutes Collective (http://www.nzpc.org.nz) also has a strong reputation of encouraging safe sex among NZ sex workers.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. The latest published data on HIV among NZ sex workers was a study by the AIDS Epidemiology Group at the University of Otago in 2005/2006.

The study recorded that there was no HIV infection among the 298 females, 32 males and 13 trans-sexual sex workers who took part in the study. This is a relatively small sample group but these figures would suggest that HIV rates among sex workers in NZ is very low. The New Zealand Prostitutes Collective (http://www.nzpc.org.nz) also has a strong reputation of encouraging safe sex among NZ sex workers.

- NZAF official response

Hi thanks for your question. The short answer to your question is yes, the NZAF HIV test does test for all strains of HIV. Our HIV tests test for antibodies to HIV rather than the virus itself so the test will pick up HIV if it is present in the body, regardless of the strain. If you would like to book an HIV test through the NZAF click on the 'Get Tested' icon at the top right of this screen.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. If you are still a New Zealand citizen then you will be entitled to full and free public healthcare included fully funded ARV treatment here in New Zealand. We would suggest that you bring a 3 month supply of ARVs with you, plus a prescription for a further 3 month supply which you should be able to get filled in New Zealand. We would also recommend registering with a GP and/or HIV specialist as soon as you arrive. It would be a good idea to look on the internet for a medical centre in the area you plan on moving to in New Zealand and calling them to discuss your situation with a GP.

Unfortunately we are restricted from directly advising on actual immigration policy, so we would need to direct you to the Department of Internal Affairs (http://www.dia.govt.nz/) for any visa information if you require it, and Immigration New Zealand (http://www.immigration.govt.nz/) for citizenship information; both websites have contact information should you wish to talk to them over the phone. We hope this information helps.

- NZAF official response

Hi there. In 2010, 2% of HIV diagnoses were for 15-19 year old gay and bisexual men; this is consistent with the HIV epidemic over previous years. However, 30% of HIV diagnoses in 2010 were for gay and bisexual men in the 20-29 age group so men under 30 are a priority for HIV prevention initiatives.

Gay and bisexual men are overwhelmingly affected by HIV in NZ. Of HIV infection that has occurred in NZ over the last 10 years, 77% has been among gay and bisexual men. Therefore the NZAF's HIV Prevention Plan 2009-2014 has a goal specifically related to increasing condom use for younger men; Goal 3 is to increase rates of condom use for first anal sex between men. The best scientific research available shows that men who use a condom the first time they have anal sex with another man are very likely to continue using condoms for the rest of their sexual life; known as a 'condom career'. Increasing rates of condom use for young gay and bisexual men will have the flow-on effect of decreasing new HIV diagnoses.

The Get it On! programme is the NZAF’s social marketing programme aimed specifically at gay and bisexual guys and is now engaging with more young gay and bisexual men than ever before. Hits to http://www.getiton.co.nz currently sit at around 14,000 per month.

Early indications are that this clear commitment to increased rates of condom use among young gay and bisexual men is beginning to be effective, however epidemiology is measured over years not months so we will have a better understanding if this approach is working by June 2012 when internal and external evaluations of our HIV prevention programming has been completed.

- NZAF official response

Hi. You are correct that the window period for accurately testing for HIV is 3 months after suspected transmission. An HIV test measures the antibodies to HIV rather than the HIV virus itself and it can take up to 3 months for the antibodies to appear in the bloodstream. Having an HIV test one day after suspected exposure would not give an accurate result. If you decide to have an HIV test immediately, it is absolutely vital that you return for a second test at the 3 month point. Condoms should continue to be used every time you have sex. An HIV test can be booked through your local GP or sexual health clinic.

- NZAF official response

Hi. There is no data that shows HIV diagnoses by geographic region in NZ so we cannot advise how many people have the HIV virus in a particular area. We can tell you that the best estimate of people currently living with HIV in NZ is 1800. In 2010 there were 149 people diagnosed with HIV in this country.

- NZAF official response

Hi. Family Planning sell Dental Dams for $3.95 each. You can either pop into the Christchurch branch of Family Planning at Level 1, 9 Washington Way, Christchurch 8142 (ph: 03 379 0514), or you can order them on their website here: http://www.familyplanning.org.nz/online_shop/personal_products/other_/productid/142

- NZAF official response

Hi. There is virtually no risk of contracting HIV from receiving oral sex - the risk only increases slightly if there is a blood to blood contact such as a bleeding cut in the mouth of the person giving oral sex and an open sore on your penis. Other sexually transmitted infections (STI's) such as Gonorrhoea can be transmitted by giving or receiving oral sex, however. If you have reason to believe that you may have been exposed to an STI we would encourage you to have a full STI screening through your local GP or sexual health clinic.

- NZAF official response

Hi. In New Zealand, the best estimate of the number of people living with HIV is 1800. There were 149 new diagnoses in 2010. The NZAF has recently produced an excellent document on the state of the HIV epidemic in NZ right now, which you may find helpful. You can read and download a copy here: http://www.nzaf.org.nz/about-us/item/nzaf-plans

- NZAF official response

Hi. If you wore a condom at all times during penetrative sex and the condom did not break or slip off, then your risk of having been exposed to HIV is extremely remote and an HIV test would not be considered necessary.

- NZAF official response

Hi. It is sometimes possible for a condom to break or rupture during sex, and this can increase the risk of exposure to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV we would strongly encourage you to have an HIV test through your GP or local sexual health clinic. Please note that it can take up to 3 months for HIV to appear in a person's bloodstream, so it is important that you have a second HIV test 3 months after a suspected exposure to HIV.

- NZAF official response

Hi. Condoms are extremely effective at preventing the transmission of HIV - the risk only increases if the condom breaks, slips off or is not used during consistently for penetrative sex. There is no data on those diagnosed as HIV positive in NZ as to whether or not transmission occurred while wearing a condom.

- NZAF official response

Hi. HIV cannot be transmitted via skin to skin (penis to penis) contact. If your partner is HIV positive then rubbing pre-cum on the head of your penis could represent an increased risk of exposure to HIV. An HIV test tests for the antibodies to HIV rather than HIV itself and it can take up to 3 months for those antibodies to appear in the bloodstream. We would encourage you to have an HIV test asap and a second HIV test 3 months after the time of suspected exposure.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. Condoms are extremely effective at preventing the transmission of HIV so yes it is safe for you to have intercourse with your HIV+ partner while wearing a condom. It is vital that a condom is used every time during anal intercourse, whether you are the giver or the receiver. Oral sex presents a very low risk of HIV transmission as both saliva and stomach acid is known to neutralise HIV; risk increases if there is an open cut in the mouth.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. The latest published data on HIV prevalence among NZ sex workers was a study by the AIDS Epidemiology Group at the University of Otago in 2005/2006. The study recorded that there was no HIV infection among the 298 females, 32 males and 13 trans-sexual current sex workers. This is a relatively small sample group but these figures would suggest that HIV rates among sex workers in NZ is very low. The New Zealand Prostitutes Collective (http://www.nzpc.org.nz) also has a strong reputation of encouraging safe sex among NZ sex workers.

Condoms remain the only effective tool to effectively reduce the risk of sexual transmission of HIV, whether with a prostitute or not, which is why it's important to use a condom and lube every time you have sex. However if think you have been exposed to HIV we would encourage you to have an HIV test through your GP or local sexual health clinic.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. HIV can not be transmitted via skin-to-skin contact so there is no risk in the situation you have described. HIV can only be transmitted via blood to blood contact, unprotected anal or vaginal sex, sharing needles and through childbirth.

- NZAF official response

Hi, The only context in which employers can insist on an employee having an HIV test is if being free of illness or disease is essential for the job. This may be the case for surgical staff for example. We have produced a brief guide to HIV and the workplace which you can read and download here: http://www.nzaf.org.nz/about-us/item/policy

For more information on legislation around this issue see http://www.osh.dol.govt.nz/order/catalogue/808.shtml

- NZAF official response

Hi, HIV can only be transmitted via blood to blood contact or via unprotected anal or vaginal sex, so there is almost a non-existent risk of HIV transmission in the situation you have described. If she touched her own genitals immediately before touching yours, and If there was blood on her genitals and an open sore on your penis then there may be a small risk of transmission. It is important to consider other STI's aswell. Some STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, warts and even syphilis can be transmitted either by skin to skin contact or by touching an uninfected area immediately after touching an infected area. There is no risk of HIV transmission through the use of shared soap. If you still feel you may have been exposed to any STI we would encourage you to have a full STI screening through your GP or local sexual health clinic.

- NZAF official response

Hi. Oral sex carries a very low risk for HIV infection as saliva in the mouth acts as a natural defence to the HIV virus. Therefore your chances of contracting HIV from having your penis sucked is very low - especially if there was no blood in the saliva. The risk of HIV infection increases if there are sores or cuts in the mouth of the person doing the sucking.

Oral sex can pose a risk for transmitting other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
If you believe you may have been exposed to an STI we would encourage you to have a full STI screening with your GP or local sexual health clinic. If you are still worried about your risk of HIV infection it's important to wait 3 months from the incident where you think you may have been infected before taking the test. An HIV test tests for the antibodies to HIV rather than HIV itself and it can take up to 3 months for antibodies to appear in the bloodstream. You can book an HIV FASTest through the NZAF by clicking the button at the top right of this screen.

- NZAF official response

Hi. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention explain that; genital sores caused by syphilis can make it easier to transmit and acquire HIV infection sexually. There is an estimated 2 to 5-fold increased risk of acquiring HIV if exposed to that infection when syphilis is present.
Ulcerative STIs that cause sores, ulcers, or breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, such as syphilis, disrupt barriers that provide protection against infections. The genital ulcers caused by syphilis can bleed easily, and when they come into contact with other bodily fluid during sex, increase the infectiousness of and susceptibility to HIV.
At the NZAF we offer both HIV and Syphilis FASTests which provide results within 20 minutes. The test is free and confidential. You can read more about our STI testing services, and make a booking, by clicking the 'Get Tested' icon at the top right of this screen.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. Unfortunately we are restricted from directly advising on immigration policy, so we would need to direct you to the Department of Internal Affairs (http://www.dia.govt.nz/) for visa information, and Immigration New Zealand (http://www.immigration.govt.nz/) for citizenship information; both websites have contact information should you wish to talk to them over the phone. There is also a website called 'HIV Travel' which may be of interest; http://www.hivtravel.org/Default.aspx?PageId=143&CountryId=133

In New Zealand, the Human Rights Act 1993 is quite clear on employment discrimination. We would suggest you contact the NZ Human Rights Commission for detailed advice, but below is a relevant excerpt from the Act:

Unlawful Discrimination: Further exceptions in relation to disability:
(1) Nothing in section 22 shall prevent different treatment based on disability where—
(a) the position is such that the person could perform the duties of the position satisfactorily only with the aid of special services or facilities and it is not reasonable to expect the employer to provide those services or facilities; or
(b) the environment in which the duties of the position are to be performed or the nature of those duties, or of some of them, is such that the person could perform those duties only with a risk of harm to that person or to others, including the risk of infecting others with an illness, and it is not reasonable to take that risk.
(2) Nothing in subsection (1)(b) shall apply if the employer could, without unreasonable disruption, take reasonable measures to reduce the risk to a normal level.

In terms of HIV healthcare in New Zealand, we do have reciprocal healthcare agreements with Australia and the United Kingdom (UK) which would allow citizens of those countries free access to HIV treatment, including antiretroviral (ARV) medication in New Zealand. For more information on healthcare for immigrants to New Zealand, check out this link: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/eligibility-reciprocalagreements

We hope this information has helped.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. An HIV test measures antibodies to HIV, rather than HIV itself, and the antibodies can take up to 3 months to appear in your blood. So if you had an HIV test 3 months after potential exposure to the HIV virus then yes, a test at that time would be completely accurate. It is also important to point out that HIV can not be transmitted via skin to skin contact, so rubbing your penis around the entrance to a vagina would represent a low risk of HIV transmission. HIV is only transmitted via unprotected penetrative or receptive anal or vaginal sex, blood to blood contact, sharing needles, childbirth and breastfeeding. Of course there is nothing stopping you from having a second HIV test for peace of mind. At the NZAF we offer free and confidential testing, and you can book an appointment by clicking the 'Get Tested' icon at the top right of this screen.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. Unfortunately we are restricted from directly advising on immigration policy, so we would need to direct you to the Department of Internal Affairs (http://www.dia.govt.nz/) for visa information, and Immigration New Zealand (http://www.immigration.govt.nz/) for citizenship information; both websites have contact information should you wish to talk to them over the phone. There is also a website called 'HIV Travel' which may be of interest; http://www.hivtravel.org/Default.aspx?PageId=143&CountryId=133

In terms of HIV healthcare in New Zealand, we do have reciprocal healthcare agreements with Australia and the United Kingdom (UK) which would allow citizens of those countries free access to HIV treatment, including antiretroviral (ARV) medication in New Zealand. For more information on healthcare for immigrants to New Zealand, check out this link: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/eligibility-reciprocalagreements

We hope this information has helped.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. The majority of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are passed on through unprotected receptive or penetrative anal or vaginal sex, through unprotected oral sex and through the sharing of needles or unclean sex toys, and through blood to blood contact. There are few STIs which are passed on solely through the exchange of saliva or kissing. Hepatitis A and B can potentially be passed on through the sharing of eating or drinking utensils or saliva exchange, as can Herpes Type 1 (commonly known as coldsores). HIV can not be passed on via saliva. For more in-depth information about STIs we would advise talking to your local Sexual Health clinic. If you think you may have been exposed to an STI we would strongly encourage having a full STI screening test, also available at your local STI clinic.

- NZAF official response

Hi. The only disease or condition which currently automatically results in the refusal of entry for migrants to Australia is active tuberculosis (TB), so you will not be refused entry to Australia based on your HIV status. New Zealand and Australia have a reciprocal healthcare arrangement, so if you are a New Zealand citizen and hold a New Zealand passport, you will be afforded full benefits of the Australian healthcare system. This includes access to funded antiretrovirals (ARVs). Usually there is a stand-down period of 6 months before a New Zealand citizen can gain full access to the Australian healthcare system, so if you are currently on ARVs we would suggest that you take a 3 month supply with you, plus a prescription for a further 3 month supply; you should be able to get a New Zealand issued prescription filled in Australia. You will also need to register with a S100 prescribing GP when you arrive in Australia. Unlike New Zealand where only an HIV specialist can issue ARV prescriptions, Australian S100 GPs are authorised to manage all HIV healthcare needs on behalf of their clients. We hope this helps.

- NZAF official response

Hi. Ask as many questions as you have; we’re here to help. HIV does not live on the skin so a rash will not transmit the HIV virus. It does sound like a serious rash, however, so we would strongly encourage you to see your doctor about it; it's important that the cause of the skin rash is identified. It is very unlikely that blisters and the fluid inside blisters could transmit HIV unless they contain blood - even then they would have to come into contact with open sores or wounds of an uninfected person. There is no risk of infection if the blisters are unbroken, or fluid from the blisters comes into contact with the unbroken skin of another person. The HIV virus is not present in perspiration so there is no risk of transmission through sweat. If you pricked your finger and did not draw blood, there is no risk of transmission. If you drew blood and a drop fell on food, the risk of transmission is very small indeed; a person would need to ingest considerable quantities of blood containing the HIV virus for transmission to occur. Studies have shown that HIV can live outside of the body for up to two hours, depending on external factors, but in the situation you’ve described, a drop of blood on food while it’s cooking would not represent a risk of transmission. In regards to hand sanitisers, as mentioned above, HIV does not live on the skin. If you were to have blood on your hands and washed it off, there would be no risk of transmission.

The HIV virus can only be transmitted via blood to blood contact, unprotected anal or vaginal sex, sharing needles, childbirth and through breastfeeding. If you have any more questions or concerns, please feel free to add another post.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. An HIV test measures antibodies to HIV, rather than HIV itself, and these antibodies can take up to three months to appear in your blood. The time between somebody acquiring HIV and the development of antibodies is called the window period. An HIV test within this critical window period is discouraged, in order to prevent the possibility of a false reading.

If you believe you have been exposed to HIV it is also important to understand that in addition to the virus being undetectable during the window period, people with HIV are also most infectious during this period; which means there is an increased likelihood of passing the HIV virus to another person if a condom is not used.

We understand that this may be a very stressful time for you, so please feel free to take advantage of our free and confidential counselling services if you feel the need to talk.You can find information on our centres under the 'Our Services' tab on our homepage.

- NZAF official response

Kissing is considered a zero risk activity for the transmission of HIV. Oral sex carries a very low risk for HIV infection as saliva in the mouth acts as a natural defence to the HIV virus. Therefore your chances of contracting HIV from having your penis sucked is very low. The risk of HIV infection increases if there is blood to blood contact, for example sores or cuts in the mouth of the person doing the sucking and sores or cuts on your penis.

Oral sex can pose a risk for transmitting other sexually transmitted diseases (STIs).
If you believe you may have been exposed to an STI we would encourage you to have a full STI screening with your GP or local sexual health clinic. If you are still worried about your risk of HIV infection it's important to wait 3 months from the incident where you think you may have been infected before taking the test. An HIV test tests for the antibodies to HIV rather than HIV itself and it can take up to 3 months for antibodies to appear in the bloodstream.

- NZAF official response

Hi. HIV can only be transmitted via blood to blood contact or via unprotected anal or vaginal sex. If there was blood on her genitals and an open sore on your penis then there may be a small risk of transmission. It is important to consider other STI's aswell. Some STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, warts and even syphilis can be transmitted either by skin to skin contact or by touching an uninfected area immediately after touching an infected area. If you are in contact with this girl it would be a good idea to ask if she has any known STIs. If you still feel you may have been exposed to any STI we would encourage you to have a full STI screening through your GP or local sexual health clinic.

- NZAF official response

Hi. Thanks for your question. There has been much research on this topic with varying results determined by varying external factors but the general consensus is that HIV does not live outside of the body for more than 2 hours. Although you have mentioned a 5 minute window, it would be highly unlikely that HIV would be transmitted in the situation you have described. If your anus was bleeding or if you had an open cut or wound on your anus then this could increase the risk of transmission. If you feel you may have been exposed to HIV you are welcome to contact us for an HIV Fastest - click the icon at the top right of this screen for more information.

More information about HIV, including the HIV test window period, can be read here: http://www.nzaf.org.nz/hiv-prevention/item/hiv101

- NZAF official response

Hi. Different STI's have different 'window periods' or time-frames between exposure and the appearance of symptoms. With HIV we test for antibodies to HIV rather than HIV itself and it can take up to 3 months for these antibodies to appear in a person's bloodstream. An HIV test within this critical window period is discouraged, in order to prevent the possibility of a false reading.

More information about specific STI's can be read here: http://www.getiton.co.nz/sti-info/
If you feel you may have been exposed to an STI we do offer free and confidential Fastests for HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis C, with results in 20 minutes. You can book a test by clicking the 'Get Tested' icon at the top right of this screen.

- NZAF official response

Hi. Unfortunately there is no medication available that can decrease the risk of infection after suspected exposure to HIV. Contraceptive pills also do not reduce the risk of HIV or other STI transmission. An ideal first step would be for your girlfriend to contact the guy she slept with last weekend and ask his HIV status and whether he has any STIs. We would also recommend that both you and your girlfriend visit a sexual health clinic or GP for a full STI screening, including an HIV test. Different STIs have different 'window periods', that is, the amount of time it takes for the infection to present in the body after exposure. The window period for HIV can be up to 3 months; it can take that long for detectable levels of antibodies to HIV to appear in the bloodstream. So we would recommend a second HIV test 3 months from now. Here is a link to some good information on various STIs: http://www.ashs.org.nz/fact_sheets.html. We understand that this is a stressful situation both on a personal level and a relationship level, so we would also suggest considering talking to your GP or a counsellor if you feel under pressure.

- NZAF official response

Hi. The answer to your question is YES; some STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, warts and even syphilis can be transmitted either by skin to skin contact or by touching an uninfected area immediately after touching an infected area. HIV however can only be transmitted via blood to blood contact or via unprotected anal or vaginal sex. A practical first step would be to ask this girl if she has any known STIs. If you still feel you may have been exposed we would encourage you to have a full STI screening through your GP or sexual health clinic.

- NZAF official response

Hi. If you visited a dentist in New Zealand it is highly unlikely that they used unsterilised equipment as they are bound to very strict national health and safety requirements. But in direct response to your question, the risk of acquiring HIV from a used dental drill is very very low. HIV can only live outside of the body for a very short amount of time so for this situation to present a risk, the drill would have to transfer fresh blood directly from the first patients mouth to yours. Even then there would need to be blood to blood contact for transmission to occur. So, your chances of contracting HIV from this experience is low to none. For peace of mind we would suggest talking to your dentist about their sterilisation rules, and we can of course offer free and confidential HIV tests at the NZAF if you want to be 100% certain. Click the Get Tested icon at the top right of this screen for more information.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. There are two factors to consider in your situation; the possible method of transmission and the test window period. If you had unprotected anal intercourse or if there was direct blood to blood contact then we would always recommend a test at the 3 month stage. However in your case we're talking about unprotected oral sex, which presents a very low risk of infection in the first place. Research has shown that saliva acts as a natural barrier to HIV, so it is unlikely you would contract HIV from receiving a blowjob. Risk with oral sex would only increase if there was an excessive amount of blood in the girl's mouth and if you had open sores on your penis. Secondly, when we talk about a three month window period we are factoring in the optimum amount of time for the antibodies to HIV to appear in the bloodstream. 83 days is just short of 3 months so we are confident that a negative result at 83 days is 100% accurate. We understand your anxiety, however, so you are more than welcome to visit us for a second test if you wish.

- NZAF official response

Hi. There would need to be blood to blood contact for you to contract HIV in this way. If your lips were chapped to the point where the skin was broken and bleeding, and came into contact with fresh blood of an HIV positive person, then there could be a small risk of infection. If the blood on their skin was dry (ie, no open or bleeding wound or cut) then there is no risk; HIV can only live outside of the body for a very small amount of time. If you have any uncertainty however, we would encourage you to have an HIV test. At the NZAF we provide free and confidential fast-tests which give you results in 20 minutes. Click the 'Get Tested' button at the top right of this screen for details.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. Yes, this is possible. The only disease or condition which currently automatically results in the refusal of entry for migrants to Australia is active tuberculosis (TB), so you will not be refused entry to Australia based on your HIV status. New Zealand and Australia have a reciprocal healthcare arrangement, so if you are a New Zealand citizen and hold a New Zealand passport, you will be afforded full benefits of the Australian healthcare system. This includes access to funded antiretrovirals (ARVs). Usually there is a stand-down period of 6 months before a New Zealand citizen can gain full access to the Australian healthcare system, so if you are currently on ARVs we would suggest that you take a 3 month supply with you, plus a prescription for a further 3 month supply; you should be able to get a New Zealand issued prescription filled in Australia. You will also need to register with a S100 prescribing GP when you arrive in Australia. Unlike New Zealand where only an HIV specialist can issue ARV prescriptions, Australian S100 GPs are authorised to manage all HIV healthcare needs on behalf of their clients.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for the question. If there was no sexual contact with the stripper (ie; oral, insertive or receptive intercourse) then you are correct. There is no risk of STI or HIV transmission in the situation you have described.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your questions.
Many people find sexual satisfaction in pornography, and it is entirely up to the user to decide how porn fits into their sex life. If you have concerns about your own use of pornography you may find it helpful to talk through these concerns with someone. At the NZAF we offer excellent free and confidential counselling services with counsellors who specialise in all areas of sexual identity. Click the 'Our Services' tab on our homepage to find out more. In regards to your second question, no you cannot get sexually transmitted diseases from a handjob. The only exception would be if you are the person giving the handjob and semen comes into direct contact with an open wound on your hand, which would present a very small risk of transmission.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. At present there are 1800 people living with HIV in New Zealand. In May we released a great resource; 'HIV Update 2011' which provides the latest statistics on the HIV epidemic in New Zealand. From the homepage of this website click on Our Voices and scroll through the articles to view an on-line copy of the HIV Update.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thank you for your question. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention website has an excellent section on HIV transmission that you would find very helpful - http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/resources/qa/transmission.htm. The fourth topic from the bottom at this link talks about HIV transmission via mosquitos. Many reputable HIV research organisations have concluded studies that show no evidence whatsoever of HIV transmission via mosquitos or any other insect, so it is not possible that your father has acquired HIV from a mosquito that bit you. The risk of transmitting HIV through sharing eating utensils or drinking from the same glass is also extremely unlikely. There is a lot of research showing that saliva acts as a natural barrier to the HIV virus, so transmission of HIV via saliva is very low. Blisters are a known symptom of HIV but there is no reason to conclude that your father’s blisters represent a presence of HIV infection. HIV is transmitted through unprotected anal sex, direct blood to blood contact, breastfeeding, childbirth and sharing needles. Without giving your father an HIV test we could not confirm if he has acquired HIV, but we can confidently say that if you have not partaken in the above activities with your father, then he has not acquired HIV from you. Naturally this is a stressful experience for you so we would like to extend our support through our free and confidential counselling services, should you like to discuss this further with one of our support centre staff. We have centres in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and can provide services in many other locations around the country also. To find the centre closest to you click on ‘Our Services’ on the homepage.

- NZAF official response

Hi there, thanks for your question. Free and confidential STI testing is available at the NZAF's clinics in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and some regional centres also. Our FASTest for HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis C gives results in 20 minutes. To find out more about our FASTest, where our clinics are and how to book an appointment, click on the 'Get Tested' icon at the top right of this screen. You can also book an STI test with your local doctor or sexual health clinic. If you have any questions at all about our testing process, please feel free to call us on 0800 80 AIDS (2437).

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. In individual cases it’s often not possible to pinpoint exactly which sexual activity resulted in transmission of HIV, however a lot of research shows that the risk of HIV transmission through oral sex is very low indeed. Unprotected anal sex remains by far the highest risk of HIV transmission (eighteen times higher for receptive anal sex than receptive vaginal sex in developed countries). Research has also shown that saliva acts as a natural barrier to the HIV virus so transmission of HIV via saliva as in insertive oral sex is extremely unlikely. If you are still concerned that you may have been exposed to the HIV virus we recommend that you make an appointment for an HIV test. For more information about booking a test, click the ‘Get Tested’ icon at the top right of this screen.

- NZAF official response

If the skin on your penis was not broken or cut and if there was no blood present, either from your penis or from the mouth of the person sucking you, then the risk of HIV transmission is very low. Oral sex carries a very low risk for HIV infection as saliva in the mouth acts as a natural defence to the HIV virus. It is important to point out that we cannot give a personal diagnosis online, so if you feel that you might be at risk of HIV we strongly encourage you to make an appointment for an HIV test. The NZAF provides a FASTest which is very quick and painless and gives you results in only 20 minutes. The test is also completely confidential. You can book a free HIV FASTest through the NZAF by clicking the 'Get Tested' button at the top right of this screen. You can also get tested through your local doctor or sexual health clinic.

Unfortunately HIV diagnosis statistics do not identify Fijian Indian diagnoses in particular.
In 2010 there were 35 heterosexual people diagnosed with HIV in New Zealand. Of those, 8 people identified as Asian and 1 person identified as Pacific.
There were 90 gay or bisexual men diagnosed with HIV in 2010 and of those, 9 people identified as Asian and 1 person identified as Pacific.

- NZAF official response

Oral sex carries a very low risk for HIV infection as saliva in the mouth acts as a natural defence to the HIV virus. Therefore your chances of contracting HIV from having your penis sucked is very low - especially if there was no blood in the saliva. The risk of HIV infection increases if there are sores or cuts in the mouth of the person doing the sucking.

Oral sex can pose a risk for transmitting other sexually transmitted diseases (STIs).
At the NZAF we provide a FASTtest that can check for HIV and also Syphillis and Hepatitis C. If you are worried about your risk of HIV infection you should leave a three month window period from the incident where you think you may have been infected to taking the test. This gives time for the HIV antibodies to develop in your system, which is what the HIV FASTtests check for. You can book a STI/HIV FASTtest by clicking the button at the top right of this screen.

- NZAF official response

Hi there. Thanks for the question. We would expect a GP to inform the patient of exactly what their blood will be tested for, rather than doing a blanket test. This is certainly the practice at national Sexual Health Clinics in New Zealand. If your GP did not advise you that they were testing for Syphilis, they may not have, but we would strongly encourage you to contact the GP who did the test, and check with them.

- NZAF official response

Hi there. Thanks for your question. The best estimate of people currently living with HIV in New Zealand is 1800. We have an excellent resource on our website - the 'HIV Update 2011 - MP Briefing' - which has the very latest statistics and provides a snapshot of HIV in New Zealand right now. Click the below link to view the resource:

http://www.nzaf.org.nz/voices/view/hiv-update-2011-mp-briefing

This resource was based on research carried out by the AIDS Epidemiology Group at the University of Otago, so you may find some useful information on their site also:

http://dnmeds.otago.ac.nz/departments/psm/research/aids/hiv_aids.html


At the NZAF office at 31 Hargreaves St, St Mary's Bay, Auckland we also have the most comprehensive library of HIV and AIDS related texts in the southern hemisphere, and you are more than welcome to use the library for your study. Feel free to call us on 09 303 3124 to make an appointment.

- NZAF official response

Hi, thanks for your question. Unfortunately we are not in a position to directly advise on citizenship criteria or possible restrictions but we can advise that your best point of contact is the Department of Internal Affairs on 0800 22 51 51 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

- NZAF official response

Your Life and Associates, a Hamilton based insurance broker has made life insurance available to people living with HIV. The company made headlines in August 2009 and was applauded for what is seen as a groundbreaking development for people living with HIV in New Zealand. You can contact Your Life and Associates on 0800 875 433 or visit their website at http://www.ylife.co.nz/contact.html

You can read our media release from August 2009 at http://www.nzaf.org.nz/news/view/huge-step-in-decreasing-hiv-discrimination

A related article from the Waikato Times can be viewed at http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/news/2780638/Just-like-everyone-else-after-HIV-insurer-move?FORM=ZZNR8

We would also encourage you to call other insurance companies directly to see if they offer a similar service.

- NZAF official response

We are sorry to hear of your loss. The NZAF and other HIV/AIDS organisations are currently organising Candlelight Memorial Services to remember those lost to HIV/AIDS around the country – check our homepage for details of services near you. It is an annual event and helps many through the grieving process as well as remembering the good times and special moments these people have shared with us. To help you through the grieving process the NZAF has a number of counsellors who will be able to help you. Call us on 09 309 5560 for free, confidential and professional support from counsellors who have been working across all spectrums of HIV for years.

- NZAF official response

There is still a risk of HIV transmission even if neither party ejaculated – the anus is very susceptible to HIV and you should always use a condom and lube when having anal sex. Another thing to consider is that if the guy you had unprotected sex with didn’t wear a condom with you, how many other people has he not worn a condom with? You can never know a person’s HIV status or guess at it, so it’s essential you protect yourself instead of risking it. It can take up to three months for HIV to show up in HIV FASTtest so book now on our testing pages.

- NZAF official response

It is best to approach your GP or Family Planing Clinic if you have concerns about pregnancy as this is not our area of expertise: http://www.familyplanning.org.nz

- NZAF official response

Oral sex is a low risk activity for HIV, especially if there is no, or minimal, contact with semen. The risk increases if there are sores or cuts in the receiver’s mouth. Oral sex can be a risk for transmitting other STIs, and the NZAF FASTtest will also check you for Syphillis and Hepatitis C. If you are worried about your risk of HIV infection you should leave a three month window period from the incident where you think you may have been infected to taking the test. This gives time for the HIV antibodies to develop in your system, which is what the HIV FASTtests check for.

- NZAF official response

HIV/AIDS is something that can affect all communities and in New Zealand, an organisation called Positive Women is dedicated to supporting women and families living with HIV. You can visit their website for more information and contact details: http://www.positivewomen.org.nz

- NZAF official response

It is always best to bring a three month supply of medication with you as it will take time to arrange meetings with a local prescriber, blood tests etc. Not knowing what medication you are on currently means that it is hard to be specific and while it is likely that your medication will have a subsidy from pharmac this is not certain. If you want more details ie what medications are funded, NZAF suggest you contact either Pharmac directly or talk with the NZAF Treatment Officer, Eamonn Smythe who will be able to provide more detail.You can call Eamonn on +64 9 300 6958.

- NZAF official response

Kissing is an extremely low risk activity for catching an STI. As you did not have unprotected anal sex your risk of contracting HIV is also extremely unlikely. Oral sex and rimming carry small risks for infections including herpes, oral syphilis, Hepatitis A and Chlamydia so if you have concerns we would recommend visiting one of our sexual health centres for a check up or to speak with one of our trained counsellors. Book a counselling session or STI/HIV FASTtest here.

- NZAF official response

There are a number of HIV peer support groups in New Zealand, including of course the New Zealand AIDS Foundation which has centres in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch as well as a counselling network around the country. There is also Body Positive (http://www.bodypositive.org.nz), Positive Women (http://www.positivewomen.org.nz), INA (for Maori) and Absolutely Positively Positive (http://www.app.org.nz). You may also find the Ministry of Health a useful source of information (http://www.moh.govt.nz).

- NZAF official response

We encourage non-discrimination in the workplace and have recently produced a resource outlining employees' rights. However, your question is specifically about the New Zealand Defence Force which may be subject to different regulations, so we recommend you should contact them directly: http://www.nzdf.mil.nz/

- NZAF official response

Antiretroviral medications for HIV are provided under Pharmac subsidy to New Zealand citizens and residents .If you have been prescribed this medication , it would be useful to bring a short supply with you, as you will need to see a HIV specialist here once you arrive to assess your condition and review your treatment options. When you arrive back in New Zealand we are of course available as a possible support, and would welcome your call on:
Auckland 09 309 5560
Wellington 04 381 6640
Christchurch 03 379 1953

- NZAF official response

Masturbation is a very low risk activity for transmitting STIs as long as there is no oral-genital or genital-to-genital contact, and skin integrity is not compromised by seminal fluids. This minimises the risk of contracting HSV (Herpes) or HPV (Genital Warts) and other STIs.

While mouth-to-mouth kissing is a low risk activity for passing on STIs, it is still possible to transmit/receive a viral infection such as Herpes. For more information on STIs check out the sexual health website http://www.ashs.org.nz/fact_sheets.html#HPV or if you have clinical symptoms make an appointment to see a GP or sexual health clinic.

- NZAF official response

The best advice we can offer would be to contact Immigration New Zealand directly. You could try the Taiwan branch http://www.nzvisa.org.tw and 886 2 2757 7060, or you can email Immigration New Zealand directly using the help facility on their website http://www.immigration.govt.nz. We’re not in a position to legally advise on Immigration issues but Immigration New Zealand’s website states that people seeking a student visa who wish to stay in New Zealand between six months and one year only require a Temporary Entry X-ray certificate to show they have been screened for TB. Those wishing to stay in New Zealand for more than 12 months have to undergo a medical, which includes screening for HIV.

- NZAF official response

ARVs are funded for NZ residents and citizens, and while New Zealand does not have Truvada we do have the two medications which Truvada are comprised of. Re your partner, it's best to contact http://www.immigration.govt.nz for more details.

- NZAF official response

It is difficult to pin down an exact figure as HIV is non-notifiable in New Zealand. Since the epidemic reached New Zealand in the mid-1980s, more than 3300 people have been diagnosed with HIV, and a recent report from the Ministry of Health estimated that there are between 1500 and 2000 people living with HIV in New Zealand at present. You can take a look at the latest NZ-AIDS newsletter for the latest figures here: http://dnmeds.otago.ac.nz/departments/psm/research/aids/newsletters.html

- NZAF official response

Thank you for your question. It sounds like you have used a home testing kit. The NZAF does not recommend using home testing kits for a number of reasons, the main one being that results can be unclear and misinterpreted. Visit our testing pages for more information. HIV home testing kits come in different formats and we can’t comment on your results as we haven’t seen what type of test you used, or what your result is. We suggest you come into one of our testing centres where you will be tested by a professional who is fully trained and will talk you through the whole process.

- NZAF official response

A range of treatment and support services are available in New Zealand, including ARVs. Please take a look at the Positive People pages of our website, call 0800 80 24 37 or visit the Ministry of Health's HIV pages.

- NZAF official response

To become infected with HIV you must get a sufficient quantity of the virus into your body, and although saliva does contain HIV, the virus is only present in trace quantities and it is impossible you would have become infected through sharing a meal. Saliva cannot cause HIV infection unless, when mouth-to-mouth kissing, both partners have sores in their mouths or severely bleeding gums, and even then the chances are infinitesimally small.

- NZAF official response

It depends on where you had the blood test taken and how long the laboratory take to analyse the results, which test they use, and the urgency given to them. It is best to check with whoever carried out your blood test.

- NZAF official response

Oral sex carries a very low risk for HIV infection (unless there is significant broken skin or gum disease present in your mouth- which then raises this to a low risk). The saliva in your mouth acts as a natural defence to the HIV virus.

Like pre-ejaculatory fluid and semen, vaginal fluids can contain HIV but in small to moderate amounts. Exposure to menstrual blood, however, is a higher risk (if significant broken skin or gum disease present in your mouth) and a dental dam (a small sheet or latex) should be used as barrier.

If you'd like to learn more about how to protect yourself from HIV, please visit our HIV Prevention pages.

- NZAF official response

Oral sex is a low risk activity unless there is significant broken skin or gum disease present in your mouth. Pre-ejaculatory fluid (precum) in HIV positive men contains HIV but not in sufficient quantities to transmit the virus via an intact mouth. Getting semen (cum) in your mouth increases the risk (there’s more HIV present in cum than precum) but if it happens, it is the length of time it remains in your mouth that’s important.

- NZAF official response

Thank you for your enquiry. We would require more information to answer your specific question around cost. For example, what medication are you currently taking?

However, the issue of the cost of the medication is likely to be superseded by the relatively restrictive immigration rules New Zealand now has for people with a chronic health condition. The rules as they stand usually result in people with a chronic condition like diabetes, HIV or a degenerative disability being declined longer term work visas.

The ability to pay for your own expenses is not considered as a basis to waive the exclusion. Generally, the only way the Health Standards Assessment on the chronic condition is waived is if you have a NZ partner and the relationship is well established.

We appreciate that this is difficult news and you may have more information that means our assumptions on your situation can be overturned. We are happy to discuss the matter further but as it is a very blanket approach that impacts on many who have a chronic condition it is not specifically discriminating against people with HIV - just those who do not have 100% perfect health!

For information on Immigration to New Zealand please visit http://www.immigration.govt.nz

- NZAF official response

The best way to know if you’ve contracted HIV is to get tested. It can take up to three months before the virus shows up in your system, so now would be a good time to get tested.

- NZAF official response

Oral sex is a very low risk activity for HIV Transmission unless there is significant broken skin or gum disease in your mouth. If you’re worried, you can book an HIV fast test by clicking here

- NZAF official response

You can find a breakdown of HIV diagnoses here. In looking at these figures, it’s important to remember that while the groups most at risk from HIV in New Zealand are gay and bisexual men and members of the African communities, HIV isn’t limited to these communities. The only way to keep yourself completely safe is to use condoms and lube every time you have sex, either anal or vaginal.

- NZAF official response

Thanks for your query. The question addresses some complex issues so we’ve asked our senior researcher Peter Saxton to provide a response below. We’re also assuming that your question relates to anal sex between males; if this isn’t the case please let us know since HIV transmission risk is heavily influenced by the type of sex occurring e.g. anal sex vs vaginal sex.

Your question has several parts to it so they’ll be addressed one at a time.

First of all, from your posting it looks like you’re aware that oral sex is considered low risk for HIV. In fact, receptive oral sex is estimated to have a per-episode risk of HIV transmission of approximately 1 in 10,000, a risk that has been determined in NZ courts to not present a “significant risk” of HIV transmission. The reasons for this are important to clarify. Mainly, this is because the mouth does not contain high concentrations of cells that are vulnerable to HIV infection, nor does it contain many cells that harbour HIV virus. Also, saliva possesses protective qualities that help keep viruses and bacteria out of the body, in ways that anal mucus doesn’t. This is an important difference that explains why receptive oral sex is so much less risky than receptive anal sex as far as HIV is concerned – if someone ejaculates HIV infected semen into an anus, the risks for the HIV negative receptive man are far greater than if HIV infected semen is ejaculated into a mouth. The normally very low risk of oral sex is of course increased if the body’s immune system in the mouth is compromised, for example if you have bleeding gums, have recently had dental work, or if you have an ulcer. Even then, the risk from anal sex is still greater.

Second, unprotected anal sex is the most efficient way of sexually acquiring HIV. Again, the reason is due to the different biology of the anus. The anus has a very high concentration of cells that are both vulnerable to HIV infection, and which also harbour HIV virus. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis, herpes, gonorrhoea and anal warts that are present in the anus can substantially heighten the risk of HIV acquisition and transmission, and many of these infections may go unnoticed and/or unchecked. In addition, a person with HIV is much more infectious in the early stages of infection, and when they have other STIs in addition to HIV (which may or may not be noticed/treated). Due to these issues and other biological and genetic factors, although the per contact risk of HIV transmission for unprotected receptive anal sex with an HIV positive man has recently been estimated at 1 in 70 episodes (and presents a “significant risk” of transmission in NZ law), in that study 12 of the 46 men who contracted HIV had experienced fewer than 10 episodes of unprotected receptive anal sex. It is still not well understood why some men become infected very quickly, and for others it takes many episodes. The probability of HIV transmission through unprotected anal sex can therefore be described as both high and variable. Receptive anal sex is also more risky than insertive anal sex, but both carry considerable transmission risks. Condoms effectively reduce this high biological risk by physically interrupting the way HIV is transmitted in the anus. By reducing the per contact risk to “below significant”, a condom also removes any legal risk (i.e. a man who knows he has HIV cannot be prosecuted for having anal sex if a condom is used).

Thirdly, you asked what effect an undetectable viral load might have on transmission risks. Four things are important to emphasise here:

(a) the term “undetectable” merely describes the limits of the viral load tests currently available. HIV is still present, albeit at levels that are below what the current test can detect. The phrase “undetectable” is increasingly being replaced with “low viral load” in order to more accurately communicate that HIV is not absent.

(b) viral load tests are only conducted a few times a year, and in between tests HIV levels can increase (“blip”) for different reasons – sometimes because the HIV positive individual is fighting off another infection (e.g. a cold or an STI) , sometimes for reasons unknown.

(c) standard viral load tests measure the quantity of HIV in blood, to help inform HIV treatment practices. However, it does not measure the quantity of HIV levels in semen, or in anal mucus, which are the main body fluids implicated in sexual practices. This is important because HIV levels in semen and in the anal mucus can differ from those measured in blood, meaning that a recent low blood viral load result may not mean that a person has low HIV viral load in semen or anal mucus. Unfortunately for gay and bisexual men, very little research has investigated HIV viral load in anal mucus, so it is difficult to say precisely in what ways it is different to HIV in semen or blood.

(d) while lower blood HIV viral loads can mean that a person is less infectious than someone with higher blood HIV viral loads, there is therefore mounting evidence that the last blood viral load test may not be a good indicator of current sexual infectiousness. Individuals with low blood viral load at their last test have transmitted HIV to sexual partners, even when that person has been adherent to HIV treatments, and in the absence of STIs.

For these reasons, it is still possible to contract HIV through unprotected anal sex with an HIV positive individual who has had a recent “undetectable” blood viral load test. For a one-off sexual encounter, the risk would be very difficult to quantify, because of the many variables at play – both known and unknown to both partners. Our practical recommendation is therefore to regard all unprotected anal sex as riskier than other sexual practices. It is also important to emphasise that condoms work very well to prevent HIV transmission through anal sex, and help protect both partner’s health in many other ways, while at the same time enabling partners to continue to enjoy having anal sex.

A short review of HIV treatments and their impact on sexual risk for men has recently been published online here which you might also find useful.

We hope this was helpful and answered your concerns, please let us know if you’d like to discuss this more.

- NZAF official response

Oral sex is a low risk activity for HIV transmission (unless there is significant broken tissue or gum disease in your mouth), because your saliva acts as a natural barrier.

The most important factor is the amount of time semen is present in your mouth. There is very low risk if you spit or swallow semen, however this risk is increased if you keep it in your mouth for a prolonged period.

- NZAF official response

In 2005, a legal precedent in New Zealand was established that the use of condoms discharged the legal duty on a person living with HIV to take ‘reasonable precautions’ to keep others safe from HIV transmission. This was ground breaking as it recognised the risk of HIV transmission is from not using condoms and not whether or not HIV status had been disclosed.“Reasonable precautions” to avoid sexual transmission of HIV include only engaging in sexual activities that involve a very low or no risk of transmission (e.g. oral sex, masturbation and kissing, using condoms for anal and vaginal sex).

However, it is worth noting that while a person living with HIV may avoid legal liability if they inform their partner of their status (disclosure) before sex, the partner must give explicit consent. If consent is not given, or considered to be given under duress, the person living with HIV might still be liable for prosecution and conviction, where no condoms have been used, even if there is no transmission of the HIV virus. For example consent can be disputed if alcohol, drugs or fear are involved.

It is very important to note however, that it is not the known or unknown HIV status of a sexual partner that puts the other at risk of HIV transmission – it is whether or not condoms and lube are used.

It’s also worth remembering that condoms and lube should be used every time you have sex, and both sexual partners share the responsibility for keeping themselves and each other safe from STIs. Relying on some to disclose the fact that they are living with HIV is unwise, as not everyone living with HIV is aware of their status.

You can find out more about HIV and criminal prosecutions on our Policy page.

If you or anyone you know is worried about any sexual encounter, the NZAF provide free, confidential testing for HIV, syphilis and other STIs. You can contact the NZAF here, or by calling 0800 80 AIDS (2437).

(NZAF Note - this answer was edited for clarity on 15 May 2010.)

- NZAF official response

You’ll know a condom is broken when the latex itself is ripped. However, if you’re using plenty of water-based lube, it is quite unusual for them to break.

Never use an oil-based lube, as the oil can break down the latex in a condom and make it more prone to breaking. You should also never use a condom that is past its use-by date (this will be clearly printed on the packet) or one that has been stored in direct sunlight or near a heat-source, as this can also weaken the latex.

If you’re worried that your condom is going to break or that it is any way weakened, you should put on a fresh one.

- NZAF official response

Oral sex carries a low risk for HIV infection (unless there is significant broken skin or gum disease present in your mouth). The saliva in your mouth acts as a natural defence to the HIV virus.

Like pre-ejaculatory fluid and semen, vaginal fluids can contain HIV but in moderate amounts. Exposure to menstrual blood, however, is high risk and a dental dam (a small sheet or latex) should be used as barrier.

If you'd like to learn more about how to protect yourself from HIV, please go here.

- NZAF official response

We'd advise waiting until your treatment is finished. Talk to whoever prescribed your medication or your chemist or GP if you've any questions about your treatment.

Some NZAF Regional Centres offer a full STI screening service, as well as the HIV and syphilis FASTest. Contact us for details on your nearest centre. You can also contact your nearest sexual health clinic.

(NZAF note - this answer was edited on 24 May 2010.)

- NZAF official response

You can get tested for HIV and syphilis for free from any of the four NZAF Centres around New Zealand. Click here to book a test.

- NZAF official response

440 members of the African communities have been diagnosed with HIV since 1996, with 29 being diagnosed in 2008. The great majority of these were infected overseas; most were HIV positive before arriving in New Zealand, and travelled to New Zealand as migrants or refugees.

More information about the African Communities in New Zealand and the challenges they face can be found here.

- NZAF official response

A HIV test doesn't test for the virus in your blood - it tests for antibodies for HIV. It is not possible to tell if somebody has contracted HIV immediately, as sometimes these antibodies can take up to three months to appear in your blood. This is called the window period.

If you're worried about your HIV status, it's important to talk to someone. Your nearest NZAF Centre can talk with you about all the issues you face, and talk to you about testing. The HIV test the NZAF uses is called the FASTest, and gives results within twenty minutes (although we ask you to take an hour out of your schedule for the appointment).

It's really important to use condoms and lube every time you have sex - they're the best way to protect yourself and your partner from the HIV.

- NZAF official response

No; it has been proven that the HIV virus cannot pass through intact latex.

- NZAF official response

Oral sex is a low risk activity unless there is significant broken skin or gum disease present in your mouth. Pre-ejaculatory fluid (precum) in HIV positive men contains HIV but not in sufficient quantities to transmit the virus via an intact mouth. Getting semen (cum) in your mouth increases the risk (there’s more HIV present in cum than precum) but if it happens, it is the length of time it remains in your mouth that’s important.

While the NZAF supply free condoms, we do not supply flavoured condoms. You can purchase these from your local pharmacy.

- NZAF official response

You can get free condoms from the NZAF.

- NZAF official response

It's important that you use condoms correctly, to make sure they don't break. Firstly, before you put on a condom you should make sure it's use-by date hasn't passed. Condoms should never be stored near a source of heat, as this can weaken the latex. When you're using a condom, you should always use water-based lube. Oil-based lube (for instance Vaseline or lotion) can weaken the latex used to make

HIV can be present in the mucous lining of the anus; if he’s not wearing a condom, the virus can enter a man’s body through the end of his penis or the inner folds of his foreskin. If you're concerned about any sexual act, it's best to contact your nearest NZAF Centre to book a test.

- NZAF official response