What are HIV and AIDS?

What is HIV?

HIV is the virus that can lead to AIDS.  HIV weakens the body's ability to fight disease and infections. To become infected, something active has to happen to physically pass the virus from one person to another.

HIV stands for Human Immuno-deficiency Virus. 

• Human: HIV only infects humans.  Anyone who engages in risk activities can get HIV, not just IV drug users, homosexuals or sex-trade workers.
  
• Immuno-deficiency: HIV weakens the immune system, making it hard for our bodies to fight infection.
  
• Virus: HIV is a virus.  It reproduces by taking over and destroying human cells that are vital to the immune system.

What is AIDS?

AIDS is a condition that results from HIV infection.  When people with HIV develop AIDS, everyday infections, like thrush or pneumonia, may become life threatening illnesses.  These illnesses are called Opportunistic Infections.

AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. 

• Acquired: Acquired means to "get" something.  AIDS is not an illness that is inherited genetically or that occurs spontaneously.
  
• Immune: Affects the body's immune system, the part of the body which usually works to fight of germs such as bacteria and viruses.
  
• Deficiency: Immune system no longer works properly.
  
• Syndrome: A syndrome is a collection of illnesses or symptoms that describe a particular condition. 

What do I do if I think I might have HIV?

While HIV is a life threatening illness, drugs are available that can reduce HIV's effect on the immune system, delay symptoms, prevent infections, and prolong life. 

Contact YouthCO, your doctor or a walk-in clinic to make an appointment to learn more and to get tested.

Learn more about the Stages of HIV and find out How HIV is Transmitted.

Learn about Hepatitis C, How it is Transmitted, and its Symptoms.

Still want more info?  Check out our Ask Jake page and Links to more resources.