The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a viral infection that usually leads to a AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). When people are first infected with HIV, they often have no symptoms or very mild symptoms. Later, the virus weakens the immune system, allowing other infections and diseases to occur. At this point, the person is diagnosed with AIDS. People with an AIDS diagnosis still have HIV in their bodies and if they have unprotected sex or share needles, they can transmit the virus to someone else.

Not all people with HIV develop AIDS. It’s impossible to say how someone’s body will respond to the infection, and there are different strains (kinds) of HIV. Most people with HIV, over time, get a weakened immune system that makes them more susceptible to other infections and diseases. People with HIV sometimes use medications to help build their immune system, decrease the amount of the virus in the body and to treat the different illnesses caused by HIV.

For more information, check out the following sites:

• Know HIV/AIDS
• The Body

Want to get tested for HIV? Find a site through National HIV Testing Resources.

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