‘How did you get it?’

When a person is diagnosed with HIV, the doctor will ask some questions to work out (if possible) how they got the virus. These questions can feel invasive or judgmental. These questions are asked so we know how people are getting HIV. This can help the government make decisions on funding for projects and campaigns.

People with HIV are sometimes asked this question by their friends and family. Sometimes, when a person with HIV sees a doctor or nurse, they may be asked this question, even though it is not relevant to their medical needs. When a person with HIV goes to a clinic, such as a physiotherapist or dentist, the form for new patients may ask if they have HIV. Your client that they do not have to answer these questions. They can say ‘I prefer not to answer.’