HIV care is what we do—and education is where it starts.
At our infectious disease practice serving Ocala and North Central Florida, we believe accurate information, early prevention, and affordable access to treatment save lives.
Whether you’re learning for yourself or supporting someone you love, understanding HIV, PrEP, and medication access through our 340B Program empowers you to take control of your health.
📞 HIV / PrEP / 340B Hotline: 352-285-0365
Confidential testing guidance, prevention counseling, and medication support from experienced infectious disease specialists.
What Is HIV and AIDS?
- HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system
- AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection
HIV targets CD4 (T) cells, which help protect your body from infections. Without treatment, HIV weakens the immune system over time. With modern therapy and expert care, progression to AIDS is often preventable.
Our infectious disease team focuses on early diagnosis, individualized treatment, and long-term immune health.
How Is HIV Spread?
HIV is transmitted through specific body fluids from a person who has HIV, including:
- Blood
- Semen and pre-seminal fluid
- Vaginal and rectal fluids
- Breast milk
The most common transmission routes in the U.S. include:
- Unprotected anal or vaginal sex
- Sharing needles or injection equipment
HIV may also be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.
What Does Not Spread HIV
HIV is not spread by:
- Hugging, handshakes, or casual contact
- Sharing toilets, dishes, or household items
- Air, water, mosquitoes, or insects
Dispelling myths reduces stigma—and helps people seek care sooner.
How Can You Lower Your Risk of HIV?
You can significantly reduce your risk by:
- Using condoms consistently
- Avoiding shared needles or injection equipment
- Getting tested regularly if you’re at risk
PrEP: Highly Effective HIV Prevention
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a daily medication for people without HIV who may be at increased risk. When taken consistently, PrEP is over 99% effective at preventing HIV through sexual exposure.
Our Ocala-based infectious disease team offers:
- Risk assessment
- Same-day PrEP initiation when appropriate
- Ongoing monitoring and support
📞 PrEP access in Ocala: 352-285-0365
HIV and Pregnancy
With proper medical care, women with HIV can dramatically reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to their baby by:
- Taking HIV medications during pregnancy and delivery
- Providing preventive medication to the newborn
In the United States, breastfeeding is not recommended for women with HIV due to transmission risk. Infant formula is the safest alternative.
Our team coordinates comprehensive HIV and pregnancy care in collaboration with OB providers across North Central Florida.
Is There Treatment for HIV?
Yes. HIV is treated with Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)—a daily medication regimen recommended for everyone diagnosed with HIV, regardless of symptoms.
Benefits of ART
- Suppresses viral replication
- Protects immune function
- Prevents progression to AIDS
- Allows patients to live long, healthy lives
Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U)
When ART lowers HIV levels to undetectable, the virus cannot be sexually transmitted. This is a cornerstone of modern HIV care and prevention.
What Are the Symptoms of HIV?
Early HIV infection may cause flu-like symptoms 2–4 weeks after exposure, including:
- Fever
- Chills
- Rash
Many people then feel well for years, even though HIV remains active without treatment.
⚠️ HIV can be transmitted at any stage—even without symptoms.
How Is AIDS Diagnosed?
A diagnosis of AIDS is based on:
- A CD4 count below 200 cells/mm³, or
- Certain opportunistic infections or cancers
Even at this stage, expert infectious disease care and continued treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
How Our 340B Program Supports HIV & PrEP Care
Medication costs should never delay or prevent treatment. Through the 340B Drug Pricing Program, eligible patients can access HIV and PrEP medications at significantly reduced cost.
Our 340B program helps patients:
- Reduce out-of-pocket medication expenses
- Maintain consistent treatment
- Improve long-term health outcomes
📞 340B eligibility questions: 352-285-0365
Key Takeaways
✔️ HIV is preventable
✔️ HIV is treatable
✔️ Expert care is available locally in Ocala
✔️ Affordable medication options exist
With early diagnosis, consistent treatment, and the support of an infectious disease specialist, people living with HIV can lead full, healthy lives.
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