Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells in the body, making the person more likely to get other infections or infection-related cancers. Over time, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) if not treated.

Transmission

HIV is transmitted through direct contact with certain body fluids from a person who has HIV. These body fluids include blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. In the United States, HIV is spread mainly by having sex or sharing drug injection equipment with someone who has HIV.

Symptoms

The symptoms of HIV vary depending on the stage of infection. Some people may experience a flu-like illness within 2 to 4 weeks after infection (Stage 1 HIV infection). But some people may not feel sick during this stage. Flu-like symptoms include fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or mouth ulcers.

Diagnosis

HIV is diagnosed with a blood test. The test looks for antibodies the body makes to fight HIV. It may take time for the body to produce enough antibodies for the test to detect.

Treatment

While there is no cure for HIV, it can be controlled with proper medical care. The medicine used to treat HIV is called antiretroviral therapy (ART). If taken as prescribed, ART can dramatically prolong the lives of many people with HIV, keep them healthy, and greatly lower their chance of transmitting the virus to others.

Prevention

There are several ways to prevent getting or transmitting HIV, including using condoms, getting tested and treated for STDs, limiting your number of sexual partners, and never sharing drug injection equipment.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus Resources
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