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Best friend needs a wakeup call
Jul 2, 2007
Hello,
My best friend and roommate has been HIV+ for almost 2 years. And it's suspected he was 2 years before that judging from what his T-Cell count was.
Once medications were started, he bounced back. It has been great to witness the change in energy levels.
However, habits that got him to this point have not changed. I know of two young men that are now HIV+ because of non-disclosure and unprotected sex.
I saw both one guy he was talking to and the now positive ex at the bar recently. Both very handsome young men and full of life. That was enough to prompt me to whisper into the new man's ear that he should use protection.
Should I have done even this much? Is there anything I can do to get my friend to stop being shelfish and fearful? I mean, not only is it morally wrong but couldn't there be legal issues?
Thank you!
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Response from Dr. Horwath
You are completely correct to advise the young man to use protection during sex. This is good advice for everyone. The tendency is to think that protection is required when the partner is known to be HIV+. But the fact is protection should always be used. Some people think they can tell if their partner is positive, but anyone can be positive and it's important to always use protection.
Yes, your roommate is selfish and morally wrong by not disclosing his status, but those who decided to have sex without protection are responsible for failing to take precautions.
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