What are HIV and AIDS?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, which is its protection against diseases. When left untreated, the virus leaves the body with little or no protection against illnesses and infections.

AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and is categorised by a collection of illnesses or symptoms. With developments in medication, people can recover from AIDS though they will still be living with HIV.

When a person living with HIV is on treatment, the virus is totally repressed and the immune system can work as needed.

HIV treatment is now so good that people living with HIV can take one or a few pills every day to keep the virus totally under control, meaning they are no longer able to pass the virus on and will not experience any symptoms. This state is called ‘undetectable’.