Learn the basics of Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV.
HIV is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, and if left untreated, can progress to cause Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). More than 1.2 million people are estimated to be living with HIV in the US, and an estimated 13% of those with HIV do not know they have it. HIV was once a death sentence, but through medical advancements such as antiretroviral therapy (ART), many people with HIV are living long and healthy lives.
HIV is transmitted by coming into direct contact with the blood, semen, pre-cum, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, or breast milk of someone who is HIV positive and has a detectable viral load. The fluids must enter the bloodstream by coming into direct contact with a mucous membrane, open cuts or sores, or by injection from a needle or syringe.
HIV is most commonly spread through vaginal or anal sex, or shared injection drug equipment. Although rare, it can also be passed from an HIV-positive pregnant person to their baby during pregnancy, birth, or while breastfeeding. It is not passed through casual contact such as hugging, holding hands, coughing, or sitting on the toilet. Read more about HIV transmission here.
One important caveat is the concept of U=U, or Undetectable=Untransmittable. People living with HIV who are on effective treatments can reduce their viral load to the point where it is “undetectable.” Once they reach these low levels, they can no longer transmit HIV to their partner(s) through sexual contact.
While you may think you would know if you have HIV, its symptoms can mimic those of other illnesses and can be difficult to diagnose without testing. The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested. About two-thirds of people with HIV will get flu-like symptoms 2-4 weeks after the virus is transmitted to them, during what’s called the acute infection stage. These symptoms include fever, chills, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, rash, and/or mouth ulcers.
If left untreated, HIV begins to impact the immune system. It can progress to AIDS, the late stage of HIV infection. Symptoms of AIDS include rapid weight loss, recurring fever, extreme fatigue, ongoing swelling of the lymph nodes, diarrhea, sores in the mouth, anus, or genitals, and memory loss or other neurological symptoms. Similar to acute infection, these symptoms can mimic other illnesses and be difficult to catch, which is why routine testing for HIV is so important. Medication for HIV is very effective and can keep HIV from progressing to AIDS.
HIV is not curable, although it is manageable. That means that while it’s a lifelong infection, there is medicine available (antiretroviral therapy, or ART) which can help people with HIV live long and healthy lives. ART involves taking HIV medication on an ongoing basis (usually daily or monthly, depending on the medication). When on an effective treatment schedule, people can reduce their viral load to the point where they no longer sexually transmit the virus to others, allowing them to have healthier and safer sex lives as well. Learn more about HIV treatment here.
Sex is a normal and healthy part of many people’s lives and there are steps you can take to lower your risk of getting or transmitting HIV. Here are some ways to have safer sex:
With HIV, there are a couple of additional options to help protect yourself: PrEP and PEP.
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis and is a medication you take regularly if you think you may be exposed to HIV to prevent transmission to yourself. PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis and is used in emergency situations if you believe you have been exposed to HIV. PEP must be started within 72 hours – but ideally within 24 hours – after a potential HIV exposure. Both options are highly effective. Learn more about PrEP and PEP here.
Please note that NCSD is not a medical facility. Content here is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Consult with a health care provider if you have questions or concerns regarding an STI or HIV.