HIV Basics

Understanding HIV - What's it about?

What makes HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) so unique is that unlike many other viral infections, this one never leaves. Instead, it focuses on weakening our immune systems so we have a harder time fighting off germs and basic infections. A normal infection could become life-threatening to an immune system already weakened by HIV.

Fortunately, our evolving understanding of HIV has made it possible for us to know what causes it and minimize its spread. And while there is no cure (yet!), medical treatment and healthy lifestyle changes can empower HIV positive individuals to live long and healthy lives.

There are three phases of HIV infection and progression, all of which can be slowed thanks to modern medicine: 

Stage 1: Acute

This stage occurs fairly soon after exposure. Some people have flu-like symptoms, which is an indicator that the body is trying to fight off an infection. Others might not feel sick at all. Symptoms may present differently depending on the person, which is why testing is so important. During this stage, the amount of HIV in your blood is extremely high, making it more likely that you could pass the virus on to others unknowingly.

Stage 2: Chronic

Once the initial infection phase has passed, most people enter a phase in which there are no symptoms or obvious health problems. This stage often can last for ten years or more, depending on health and lifestyle choices. Blood tests are the most accurate way to identify how active HIV is inside the body, how transmittable it is, and how treatment is slowing the virus’ activity.

Stage 3: AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome)

If someone goes a long time without HIV treatment, it can lead to the most serious stage of infection, known as AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). At this point, the immune system is severely compromised and people with stage 3 infection are more vulnerable to an increasing number of severe illnesses. Early detection is an important step to help mitigate potential of reaching Stage 3.

How can you get HIV?

The most common way of transmission is through anal or vaginal sex, because vaginal fluid and semen can carry HIV. The other most common way is by sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment, which can introduce HIV directly into the bloodstream. In both scenarios, the HIV in these fluids must get into the bloodstream of an HIV-negative person in order for transmission to occur.

Mother-to-child transmission is the third most common scenario for HIV transmission, however it’s become much less prevalent. HIV testing is now standard for pregnant women, which means it can be caught and treated sooner if present and prevent this sort of transmission.

Who can get HIV?

Anyone can get HIV. Men, women, children, people of any age, race or ethnic group, religion, economic background, or sexual orientation.

Within the United States, there were approximately 1.2 million HIV positive individuals in 2018 - out of nearly 330 million citizens. As access to better testing, care, and education increases, the number of individuals testing positive for HIV continue to fall.

One way to help stop the spread and protect yourself is by using a condom correctly every time you have sex and by encouraging your sexual partners to do the same. Another is by avoiding shared needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment. Getting tested regularly is also a smart decision, especially if you engage in activities that could put you at risk.

How do I know if I have HIV?

The only way to know for sure is through an HIV test. In fact, 1 in 7 individuals are living in the United States today without knowing they are HIV positive. Knowing your status gives you powerful ownership of your own health information so you can make life-affirming decisions for yourself and your loved ones.

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