HIV / AIDS
Health Information
What is HIV?
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks CD4+ cells, making the immune system vulnerable to infections and diseases.
CD4+ cells, or helper T cells, are a type of white blood cell that circulates through the whole body. They are essential for immune system protection.
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There is no cure for HIV, but it is treatable with medicine.
Stages of HIV
There are 3 main stages of HIV. Each of the stages can last months or years.
HIV treatment can slow or prevent the progression.
Acute HIV Infection
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The earliest stage of infection
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Flu-like symptoms
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HIV is multiplying throughout the body, targeting the immune system.
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The viral load is typically very high in this stage
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Increased risk of transmission.
Chronic HIV Infection
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Lower multiplication levels
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Milder symptoms
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Without treatment, people can stay in this stage upwards of 10-15 years.
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If a person follows their treatment plan, it is possible to lower their viral load
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If a person still has a detectable viral load, they can still transmit HIV, even if they feel no symptoms.
AIDS
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Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
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The late stage of HIV infection
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Occurs if a person does not receive treatment
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When the number of their CD4+ cells falls below 200 cells per cubic milliliter of blood.
How is HIV transmitted?
A person can only acquire HIV through direct contact with certain bodily fluids from a person who has HIV. These are blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
For a transmission to occur, the HIV in the fluids must get into the bloodstream of the HIV-negative individual through a mucous membrane, through cuts, sores, or injection.
Common ways of transmission
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Having vaginal or anal sex with someone who has HIV without using a condom correctly or taking medicine to prevent HIV.
Sharing injection equipment such as needles and syringes with someone who is HIV-positive.
Next Steps
Due to the broad range of symptoms, a person can only know if they have HIV if they get tested. ​
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If you or someone you know is interested in learning more, visit Vivent Health.
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Vivent Health is an organization dedicated to providing resources and advocating for people who live with HIV.
Visit their website to learn more about the next steps for HIV care:
