There are three main stages of HIV infection: acute infection, clinical latency, and AIDS.
First main stage: acute infection
The initial period following infection with HIV is called acute … See more

HIV is the cause of the spectrum of disease known as HIV/AIDS. HIV is a retrovirus that primarily infects components of the … See more

After the virus enters the body, there is a period of rapid viral replication, leading to an abundance of virus in the peripheral blood. During primary infection, the level of HIV may reach several million virus particles per milliliter of blood. This response is … See more

Sexual contact
Consistent condom use reduces the risk of HIV transmission by approximately 80% over the long term. When condoms are used consistently … See more

HIV is spread by three main routes: sexual contact, significant exposure to infected body fluids or tissues, and from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding … See more

HIV/AIDS is diagnosed via laboratory testing and then staged based on the presence of certain signs or symptoms. HIV screening is recommended by the United States … See more

There is currently no cure, nor an effective HIV vaccine. Treatment consists of highly active antiretroviral therapy (ART), which slows progression of … See more