HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system. The immune system weakens, making it more difficult for the body to fight infections and certain types of cancer.
Most people who are diagnosed with this infection early and take anti-HIV medications can live long and fulfilling lives.
What is AIDS?
AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) occurs after a person has been infected with HIV for many years. In case of AIDS, the immune system is seriously weakened. As a result, serious infections are contracted and major health problems develop.
Medications can help prevent an HIV infection from progressing to AIDS.
People with HIV usually do not show symptoms right away and so may not know they have the virus. It may take years for you to show symptoms of HIV and for the virus to make you sick.
The first symptoms of HIV.
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