What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that weakens the body’s defense (immune) system until it can no longer fight off illnesses, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, cancerous tumors and others.
HIV kills CD4 cells (T cells), which direct the body’s immune system to defend against infection.

What is AIDS?

A person is considered to have AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) when the immune system is seriously damaged by HIV.
In the U.S., an HIV-infected person receives a diagnosis of AIDS when his or her CD4 count is less than 200 or if diagnosed with a specific illness. (An average CD4 cell count in a healthy person is 1,150.)

Is there a cure for HIV or AIDS?

There is still no cure or vaccine for HIV or AIDS.
There are new drug treatments that can help many people with HIV stay healthy longer and can delay the onset of AIDS. As a result of these drugs, the number of HIV cases that develop into AIDS, and the number of AIDS-related deaths, have dropped dramatically in the U.S. However, HIV infection rates remain unchanged.

How might I become infected with HIV?

HIV is transmitted from an HIV-positive person through infected body fluids, such as semen, pre-ejaculate fluid, blood, vaginal secretions, or breast milk.
A mother may give the virus to her child through pregnancy, delivery (childbirth) and breast-feeding.
HIV can also be transmitted through needles contaminated with HIV-infected blood, including needles used for injecting drugs, tattooing, or body piercing.
HIV is most often transmitted sexually.

Can I get HIV from casual contact with an infected person?

No. You do not get HIV from an HIV-infected person by working together; playing sports; shaking hands; hugging; closed-mouth kissing; sharing drinking glasses, eating utensils or towels; using the same wash water, drinking fountain or toilet; swimming in the same pool; or coming into contact with the person’s sneezes, coughs, tears, or sweat.
You also don’t get HIV from bug bites or by donating blood.

What are the symptoms of HIV?

HIV affects each person differently. Many people with HIV can look and feel healthy for years, so you cannot rely on symptoms to know if you (or others) are infected.
The only way to know if you are infected is to be tested. Click here for information on free, anonymous testing.

General Disclaimer: The Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force (PATF) website is designed for informational and educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided through PATF website should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, consult your healthcare provider.