Hiv Infections

HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is an infectious disease caused by a virus that attacks and weakens the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off other infections and diseases. HIV is primarily spread through intimate contact with someone who is infected, such as unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles for drug use or being born to a mother who is infected. The virus can cause AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), which is the most severe stage of HIV infection. If left untreated, HIV infections can be life-threatening and lead to death. Treatment is available to slow the progression of the disease, however, there remain many social and economic challenges to access this treatment in many regions of the world. As a result, HIV/AIDS continues to be a major global public health issue.