What is HIV?
HIV stands for the Human Immuno-deficiency Virus. This is a virus that people can become infected with and then pass onto other people.
When does HIV become AIDS?
When someone becomes infected with HIV, it begins to attack his or her immune system which defends the body against illness. This process is not visible. A person infected with HIV may look fine and feel healthy for many years and may not know that he or she is infected. As the person's immune system weakens, they become vulnerable to illnesses, many of which healthy people would fight off. People with HIV will eventually begin to become ill more and more often. A person is said to have AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) when, usually several years after first becoming infected with HIV, they have developed one of a number of particularly severe illnesses.
What fluids can hold HIV?
HIV can be easily transmitted through these common bodily fluids:
- Blood and blood products
- Semen and possibly pre-cum
- Vaginal and cervical secretions
- Menses
- Breast milk
Is there a cure for HIV or AIDS?
There is currently no cure for HIV or AIDS. Although treatments continue to improve and access to treatment is constantly increasing.