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HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. If untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS.

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HIV is a virus that attacks cells in the immune system, which is our body’s natural defence against illness. The virus destroys a type of white blood cell in the immune system called a T-helper cell, and makes copies of itself inside these cells. T-helper cells are also referred to as CD4 cells. As HIV destroys more CD4 cells and makes more copies of itself, it gradually weakens a person’s immune system. This means that someone who has HIV, and isn’t taking antiretroviral treatment, will find it harder and harder to fight off infections and diseases. Once a person has HIV, the earlier they are diagnosed, the sooner they can start treatment which means they will enjoy better health in the long term. Regular testing for HIV is important to know your status.

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nausea

vomiting

persistent diarrhea

chronic fatigue

rapid weight loss

cough and shortness of breath

recurring fever, chills , and night sweats

rashes, sores. lesions in the mouth or nose, on the genitals, or under the skin

prolonged swelling of the lymph nodes in the armpits, groin, or neck

memory loss, confusion or neurological disorders

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Someone can become infected even if only  a small amount of body fluids are spread. Everyone who has unprotected sex with an infected person is at risk of contracting HIV, but people who already have another sexually transmitted disease (STD) are even more at risk.

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Limit the number of sex partners. Having fewer sexual partners lowers your chances of getting HIV or transmitting HIV if you already have the virus.

Use condoms the right way every time you have sex.

Get tested and treated for other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Having other STDs increases your risk for getting or transmitting HIV.

If you are living with HIV, get and stay on treatment, called antiretroviral therapy (ART), to protect your health and help prevent transmitting HIV to others.

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HIV can be spread through any type of unprotected sex (oral, vaginal, or anal) if one of the partners has the virus. This can happen when body fluids such as semen , vaginal fluids, or blood from an infected person get into the body of someone who is not infected.

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No cure exists for AIDS, but strict adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART) can dramatically slow the disease's progress, prevent secondary infections and complications, and prolong life.