The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that weakens the immune system. It is transmitted through bodily fluids, usually in situations where there is direct contact with the bloodstream (like with an injection) or through mucous membranes (like during sex without condoms or other barriers). Flu-like symptoms may begin two to four weeks after exposure, but you’ll need an HIV test for diagnosis. An HIV infection is incurable but treatable. Antiretroviral medications can help you lead a normal, healthy life. Without treatment, HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), an advanced stage of immune system damage, which can lead to death.
What Is HIV? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and PreventionMedically Reviewed by Jane Yoon Scott, MD | February 13, 2024
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What's your biggest challenge in living with HIV today?
FAQ
How soon after exposure can I get tested?
You should get tested for HIV as soon as possible after exposure, but it can take anywhere from 10 days to 90 days to detect infection. If the test is negative, it is recommended that you get tested again at three and six months.
Can I get HIV from a toilet seat, a hug, or a sneeze?
No, you won’t pick up HIV this way. Unlike the flu or COVID-19, HIV doesn’t survive very long outside the body. It is spread by direct contact with bodily fluids, such as during sex without condoms or barriers, or via injection with nonsterile, used needles.
When should I start treatment for HIV?
As soon as you receive a positive diagnosis. This keeps your immune system stronger (preventing progression to AIDS) and reduces your likelihood of passing along HIV, by keeping your viral load low.
Can I be in a sexual relationship or have a baby if I have HIV?
Pre-exposure prophylaxis medication (PrEP), among other measures, can be taken to lower viral load to an undetectable level, reducing the likelihood of passing HIV to a baby during pregnancy or to a sexual partner to less than 1 percent.
Does HIV cause cancer?
While HIV doesn’t directly cause cancer, a weakened immune system in someone with untreated HIV can increase the chances of some cancers. Regular cancer screenings, proper HIV treatment, and living a healthy lifestyle can help prevent cancer.
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Jane Yoon Scott, MD
Medical Reviewer
Jane Yoon Scott, MD, is an infectious disease physician and an assistant professor of medicine at Emory University in Atlanta. Dr. Scott enjoys connecting with her patients, empowe...
Adam Lake, MD, is a family physician with expertise in LGBTQIA+ health, as well as an HIV specialist and addiction medicine specialist. He is medical director of a clinic specializ...
Lynn Grieger is a registered dietitian-nutritionist, certified diabetes care and education specialist, certified personal trainer, and certified health and wellness coach. She comp...
Grant Chu, MD, is an associate clinical professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dr. Chu is also associate director of inpatient East-West consult services at the ...
Daniel Landau, MD, is a distinguished board-certified hematologist-oncologist with a career that has spanned two eminent institutions: the Orlando Health Cancer Institute and the M...
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