Page 21 - USF 2025-2026 Student Planner

What is HIV/AIDS
HIV & AIDS RESOURCES ///
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus responsible for causing Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV weakens the immune system over time, making it harder for the body to fight off diseases and infections. AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection, occurring when the immune system becomes too compromised to combat illness.
You may be at a higher risk for contracting HIV if you have:
- Injected drugs or steroids and shared needles or other injection equipment
- Had unprotected sex with men who have sex with men, with multiple partners, or with anonymous partners - Exchanged sex for drugs or money
- Received a blood transfusion or clotting factor between 1978 and 1985
- Had unprotected sex with someone who falls into any of the categories above
Prevention Methods
The only way to completely eliminate the risk of HIV transmission is through abstinence or being in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner. However, consistent and correct use of latex condoms significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission. It’s also important to avoid unprotected exposure to bodily fluids from someone who is HIV-positive.
For individuals at higher risk, PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a preventative medication that can help reduce the chance of HIV infection. To find out if PrEP is right for you, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider at the Student Health & Wellness Center (SWC 310).
If you believe you’ve been exposed to HIV and are not on PrEP, PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) may be an option. PEP medications must be started within 72 hours of potential exposure, and the sooner they are taken, the more effective they are. If your campus health center is closed and the 72-hour window is approaching, visit an Urgent Care or Emergency Room immediately.
The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested. Students can contact their campus student wellness center for more information, testing services, or referrals to local HIV care providers, including county health departments. You can also find a nearby testing location by texting your zip code to 477493.
TAMPA
Metro Inclusive Health & Community Center Address: 3500 E Fletcher Ave Suite 302, Tampa, FL 33613
(813) 232-3808
Ybor Youth Clinic
1315 E 7th Ave STE 104, Tampa, FL 33605 (813) 821-8955
COVE Behavioral Health
4422 East Columbus Drive, Tampa, FL 33605 (813) 384-4000
Hillsborough County Health Dept
1105 E. Kennedy Blvd Tampa, FL 33602 813-307-8000
Planned Parenthood Tampa Health Center
8068 N 56th St, Tampa, FL 33617 (813) 980-3555
Tampa Family Health Centers
302 W Fletcher Ave #2, Tampa, FL 33612 (813) 397-5300
SARASOTA
First Step of Sarasota Inc.
4579 Northgate Ct, Sarasota, FL 34234 (941) 366-5333
Any Lab Test Now
4141 S Tamiami Trl Suite 24, Sarasota, FL 34231
(941) 922-4500
Orenda Health and Wellness
1680 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 254-1552
ST. PETERSBURG
Metro Inclusive Health Downtown St. Pete 625 6th Ave. S, Ste. 305
(727) 321-3854
Empath Partners in Care (EPIC)
3050 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (727) 328-3260
Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County
205 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 824-6900
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