prevention of AIDS - #6655

I’ve been reading a lot about AIDS prevention, and I want to fully understand the best ways to stay protected. I know that HIV causes AIDS, but how can someone make sure they don’t contract the virus in the first place? One thing I keep hearing about is PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). How effective is it in preventing HIV transmission, and who should take it? Can anyone get PrEP, or is it only for people at high risk? Also, if someone is already exposed, how quickly should they start PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) for it to work? I also want to know how different forms of protection compare. I know condoms are a major part of AIDS prevention, but are they 100% effective? Do female condoms provide the same level of protection? What about dental dams for oral sex—are they really necessary? Another concern I have is about HIV testing. How often should people get tested if they’re sexually active, and how soon after exposure can a test detect the virus? I’ve heard that some people don’t show symptoms for years—does that mean they could unknowingly spread it without realizing? I also read that needle sharing and blood transfusions used to be major risk factors for HIV. How safe is the blood supply today, and what measures are in place to prevent HIV transmission through medical procedures? For those who actively practice AIDS prevention, what are the most effective steps you take? Are there any new treatments or vaccines being developed that could help stop the spread of HIV entirely?