HIV

A virus that weakens the immune system. With daily treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives and not pass it on.

InfectionImmune systemLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

A short flu-like illness after infection, then often no symptoms for years. Without treatment, frequent infections and weight loss.

Common Treatments

Antiretroviral therapy (ART): daily medicines that keep the virus under control, free at ART centres in India.

Risk Factors

Unprotected sex, sharing needles, mother-to-baby spread and unsafe blood transfusions.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) attacks CD4 cells, which help the body fight infection. Without treatment, the immune system gets weaker and serious infections can develop. This late stage is called AIDS.

HIV is spread through blood, semen, vaginal fluids and breast milk. It isn't spread by touching, hugging, sharing food or mosquito bites. With effective treatment, the virus becomes undetectable and can't be passed on through sex.

Symptoms

Early flu-like illness

Fever, sore throat, rash and swollen glands a few weeks after infection.

Years without symptoms

Many people feel well while the virus slowly damages the immune system.

Later symptoms

Weight loss, long-lasting diarrhoea, fever and repeated infections.

Opportunistic infections

Such as TB and pneumonia, if HIV isn't treated.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Infection with HIV through contact with infected body fluids. The virus copies itself inside immune cells and destroys them over time.

Key Risk Factors

  • Unprotected sex Sex without a condom with someone whose HIV isn't controlled.
  • Sharing needles Including in drug use.
  • Mother to baby During pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding, if the mother isn't on treatment.

Management & Treatment

01. Testing

HIV tests are free and confidential at Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres.

02. Antiretroviral therapy

Daily medicines started as soon as possible after diagnosis.

03. Regular monitoring

Viral load and CD4 tests check how well treatment is working.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can HIV be cured?
There's no cure yet, but treatment controls the virus very well.
Can a mother with HIV have a healthy baby?
Yes. With treatment during pregnancy, the risk of passing HIV to the baby is very low.
What if I was exposed recently?
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) started within 72 hours can prevent infection. Seek care immediately.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.