What are HIV & AIDS?

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that destroys the body's immune system. This makes it hard for the body to fight off illness. HIV can cause AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), a group of illnesses caused by a severely weakened immune system.

 

A person can be infected with HIV and not have any symptoms for many years. There are treatments available to prevent illness, as well as to manage symptoms once they develop. It's important for all people who have HIV to get routine exams by their doctor to make sure treatment is working.