Basic HIV Fact Sheet

HIV is the acronym for human immunodeficiency virus. This virus comes in two forms, the HIV1 and the HIV2, of which the former is most common in the United States and the latter is more common in African nations. HIV is the cause of acquired immune deficiency syndrome, or AIDS, and was first reported in the United States in 1981.

Features

• HIV attacks the immune system by destroying the body's CD4 white blood cells. Without a properly-functioning immune system the body is less able to fight infections and diseases. This makes it more susceptible to disease and ultimately allows the individual to develop AIDS.

Symptoms

• Many people with HIV exhibit no symptoms, while others may show flu-like conditions. Those who show no outward symptoms should still seek routine medical care as their bodies are still affected by the virus. Medications can slow or limit the damage done to the immune system and make it possible for HIV patients to live much longer than was once possible.

Effects

• When an individual's immune system has been compromised for a long time, the last stage of HIV is AIDS. The onset of AIDS is often triggered by a very low CD4 blood count or the onset of a disease such as such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, which becomes complicated due to the weakened immune system. Although scientists and researchers are working around the world for better management of this ailment, there is no known cure.