What Is HIV / AIDS?

What Is HIV/AIDS?

• HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which causes the disease called AIDS.
• AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, and is a sexually transmitted disease.
• AIDS is the final stage of HIV infection and it can take years for a person infected with HIV to reach this stage.
• Having AIDS means that the virus has weakened the immune system to the point at which the body has a difficult time fighting any infections.
• However, with today's new treatments, people who are HIV-positive can live full, active lives, and avoid progressing to AIDS, if the viral infection is known at an early stage. Don't wait. Get tested today!

Who Is Most at Risk for HIV/AIDS?

Anyone can get HIV-women and men, straight or gay. If you answer yes to one of the following questions, you should get tested.

• Have you had sex without a condom, even just once?
• Have you had more than one sex partner?
• Have you ever had a sexually transmitted disease?
• Have you ever shared a needle?