Sexually Transmitted Infections
What is HIV?
HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that damages the cells of the immune system and weakens the ability to fight everyday infections and illnesses.
AIDS (Acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is the name used to describe a number of potentially life threatening infections and illnesses that happen when your immune system has been severely damaged by the HIV virus. While AIDS cannot be transmitted from 1 person to another, the HIV virus can.
Although currently there is no cure for the HIV virus, with an early diagnosis and effective treatments, most people with HIV will not develop any AIDS related illnesses and will live a normal lifespan. This is as when HIV is undetectable it is untransmissible.
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More Sexually Transmitted Infections Q&A
How long does it take for an STI to show up?
Does using a condom only some of the time offer any protection from STIs, including HIV?
I get cold sores. Can I pass these onto others if I give someone else oral sex?
How do I know if I have an STI?
Will having sex with a virgin cure someone with an STI, including HIV?
What is the difference between a STD and STI?
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