What does the ABC prevention strategy (Abstinence, Be faithful, Condom use) specifically refer to?

Here's your translation:

Hey friend! That's a great question you've asked. The "ABC Prevention Strategy" is indeed a well-known concept in HIV prevention, simplifying complex prevention knowledge into three memorable and easy-to-understand points. Let me break it down for you in plain language:

Think of the ABC strategy as a "three-layer protection net" shielding you from HIV. Each layer is an option, and you can decide which one(s) suit your situation.

A - Abstinence (Avoiding/Delaying Sexual Activity)

This could be seen as the most straightforward, no-nonsense approach.

What does it mean? Essentially, it means having no sexual intercourse. This includes any sexual contact that could lead to an exchange of bodily fluids. For young people, it often also means "delaying first sexual intercourse."
Easy-to-understand analogy: It's like wanting to avoid traffic accidents 100% – the most foolproof way is not to drive at all. If you don't drive, you eliminate the chance of a crash. Similarly, if you abstain from sexual activity, the risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection drops to absolute zero.
Who might consider this? This is a perfectly valid choice for people not yet ready to start sexual activity or those choosing celibacy during certain phases of life.

B - Be Faithful (Fidelity / Maintaining a Single, Mutually Faithful Sexual Partner)

If "not driving" isn't realistic, we choose what's akin to a completely safe "private road."

What does it mean? It means being in an exclusive, faithful, long-term relationship with one partner who is only sexually active with you. There's one critical prerequisite: You and your partner must both first confirm you are HIV-negative (e.g., through professional testing).
Easy-to-understand analogy: Think of this as you and your partner creating an "exclusive private lane." As long as both of you guarantee that no other "cars" use this lane and no "outside cars" are allowed on it, then driving on this lane is very safe. The risk arises if one person "strays off-road," bringing potential danger back onto your "private lane."
Key point: "Faithfulness" must be mutual and is based on both partners being "clean" (HIV-negative). Getting tested together before starting such a relationship is a responsible act for each other.

C - Condom (Using Condoms Correctly)

If A and B aren't feasible – for instance, if you can't be sure of your partner's status, or if you have multiple partners – then C is the essential "protective armor" you must wear.

What does it mean? It means using a high-quality condom correctly throughout every single sexual act. Pay attention to the key terms: every single time, throughout the entire act, correctly.
Easy-to-understand analogy: Think of a condom like a "seatbelt" when driving or a "helmet" when riding a motorcycle. It cannot guarantee 100% absolute safety (e.g., if it unexpectedly breaks or slips off), but it dramatically and effectively reduces the risk of contracting HIV and other STIs, lowering the risk to a very, very minimal level.
Key point: This isn't about "using them sometimes"; it's about "non-negotiable, consistent use." You wouldn't say, "I feel good today, I'll skip the seatbelt" – risks materialize when least expected.

To summarize

The ABC strategy isn't about picking just one option; it's a prioritized list of choices:

Best choice: A (Abstinence) - Zero risk.
Next best choice: B (Be Faithful) - Extremely low risk when both partners are confirmed healthy.
Essential protection: C (Condom) - If A or B aren't possible, this is your bottom line and most vital tool for self-protection.

The beauty of this strategy is that it offers everyone, regardless of their life stage or relationship status, a way to protect themselves. It's not a rigid doctrine, but a practical "personal safety toolkit."

Hope this explanation helps! Protecting yourself is also about protecting those you love.