HIV & AIDS Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome ( AIDS ). HIV weakens your immune system by destroying your T-cells until you are unable to fight off even minor illnesses. You can have HIV without any symptoms. Getting tested and starting treatment early gives you the best chance of living a long life. Overview Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome ( AIDS ), is an ongoing, also called chronic, condition. It's caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, also called HIV. HIV damages the immune system so that the body is less able to fight infection and disease. If HIV isn't treated, it can take years before it weakens the immune system enough to become AIDS . Thanks to treatment, most people in the U.S. don't get AIDS . Discover how HIV spreads, how to prevent the virus progressing to AIDS , and where to get treatment. HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS , a life-threatening condition. Learn how HIV is transmitted, diagnosed, prevented and treated, and how WHO aims to end the HIV epidemic by 2030.
