HIV

HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). The virus weakens the body’s ability to fight off common illnesses or serious infections. HIV is often present for many years before AIDS develops.

Transmission

HIV spreads through contact with blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk from infected people. Common transmission methods include sexual contact (especially unprotected sex), shared needles, and pregnancy. It is also possible to become infected with HIV through a blood transfusion, although this is now very rare because of better blood screening. People do not become infected with HIV through everydaycasual contact.

Complications

Once AIDS develops the immune system becomes increasingly unable to fight off infections and common illnesses. Death is often attributed to these infections and illnesses.

Treatment

Medications are available to prolong life and improve the quality of an infected person’s life, but there is no cure for HIV.