According to state statistics, over 1,300 Atlantic County residents are currently living with AIDS. Yet many people do not fully understand the effects and extent of this disease. Learn more about AIDS/HIV by reading the following information compiled from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Know the Facts about AIDS/HIV
AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. AIDS is caused by infection with a virus called human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This virus is passed from one person to another through blood-to-blood and sexual contact. In addition, infected pregnant women can pass HIV to their babies during pregnancy or delivery, as well as through breast feeding. Infection with HIV can weaken the immune system to the point that it has difficulty fighting off certain infections. The immune system of a person with AIDS is weakened to the point that medical intervention may be necessary to prevent or treat serious illness.

Treatment Options
Today there are medical treatments that can slow down the rate at which HIV weakens the immune system. There are other treatments that can prevent or cure some of the illnesses associated with AIDS. As with other diseases, early detection offers more options for treatment and preventative care.

HIV and Sexually Transmitted Disease – Confidential screening, counseling and treatment is available for Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Chlamydia and HIV.  No fee and no appointment are necessary. The clinic is held every Monday, except holidays, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 201 Shore Road (Stillwater Building) in Northfield. For more information call (609) 645-5933.

Learn More
For more information on AIDS/HIV, contact the expert nurses in our Community Health/Clinical Services Unit (609-645-5933) or visit the resource pages listed below:

AIDS Community Care Alternative Program (ACCAP) - Eligible individuals diagnosed with AIDS may receive Medicaid covered services including private duty nursing services in the community rather than in a nursing home. Call 1-888-426-9243

Living with HIV/AIDS - An informational booklet from the CDC, also available in Spanish.

National AIDS Hotline: 1-800-342-AIDS – This hotline operates toll free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Hotline offers anonymous, confidential HIV/AIDS information from trained specialists. TTY service is available for the deaf (1-800-243-7889). The Spanish service (1-800-344-7432) offers STD information in addition to information about HIV/AIDS.  Additional information about AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases can be found at the American Social Health Association (ASHA) website.

New Jersey Department of Health - HIV/AIDS, STD and TB Services

South Jersey AIDS Alliance – Provides advocacy, education, prevention services, support groups, case management, outreach, food bank, pharmaceutical assistance and a resource center.

Information compiled from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Additional Resources

• Safe Syringe Disposal Brochure
• STD Clinic