HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a type of retrovirus, that if left untreated can lead to AIDs (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids that include:

-blood

-semen

-vaginal and rectal fluids

-breast milk

The virus isn’t transferred in air or water, or through casual contact.

Because HIV inserts itself into the DNA of cells, it’s a lifelong condition and currently there’s no drug that eliminates HIV from the body, although many scientists are working to find one.

However, with medical care, including treatment called antiretroviral therapy, it’s possible to manage HIV and live with the virus for many years.

Without treatment, a person with HIV is likely to develop a serious condition called the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, known as AIDS.

At that point, the immune system is too weak to successfully respond against other diseases, infections, and conditions.