Living with HIV

"U=U" stands for "Undetectable = Untransmittable"

When someone living with HIV takes their medication correctly and keeps an undetectable viral load, they can’t pass HIV to their partners through sex. It’s one of the best ways to stay healthy, reduce stigma, and protect others.

Why It Matters & What to Know

• Getting on HIV medicine as soon as possible and staying on it regularly gives the best chance to become undetectable, often within about six months.
• “Undetectable” doesn’t mean HIV is gone. The virus is still in the body, but at such low levels that a test can’t see, and it can’t be passed through sex.
• To stay undetectable, it’s important to keep taking medicine, go to health care visits, and get regular blood tests (viral load tests).

Find Help Today:

• Need an HIV test? Check out the list of HIV Testing Locations.
• Want to learn about your HIV treatment options and other services for people living with HIV? Contact a case manager at any of the following agencies listed below under “Newly Diagnosed, New to the County, or Out of Care?”.

Newly Diagnosed, New to the County, or Out of Care?

If you just found out about your status or need help finding services, there are many local resources where you can find help. Contact a case manager at any of the following agencies who will help link you to services.

Already a client?

• Get involved! Join the Orange County HIV Planning Council by helping to ensure people living with HIV are getting needed services.

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• Stay in care! For more information about non-County funded services, visit Services and Resources.

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• Be informed! Read about HIV, your rights and responsibilities, services and resources for clients by viewing the Client Handbook below.

Looking for Housing Services? 

View the Housing Brochure below to learn more about housing services for people living with HIV.

Public Charge Fact Sheets

This fact sheet, from the California HIV/AIDS Policy Research Centers, is designed specifically to help people living with HIV and at risk for HIV to better understand the potential impact of the proposed changes.

• English Public Charge Guide Changes as of 09/2022
• Spanish Public Charge Guide Changes as of 09/2022
   
• English ADAP FAQ On Public Charge  as of 01/20
• Spanish ADAP FAQ On Public Charge as of 01/20

Page Last Updated: April 16, 2025