BACKGROUND
BACKGROUND
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Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI): It is an illness that you can get from having sexual contact without protection. Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis and Trichomoniasis, Herpes, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and others are some examples.
HIV is only one of the numerous Sexually Transmitted Infections.
STI and HIV have the same critical at-risk populations and preventative strategies.
HIV PROGRESSION
HIV PROGRESSION
Without treatment, HIV goes through stages, gradually weakening the immune system and eventually leading to AIDS. Although there is no cure for HIV, taking HIV medicines—called antiretroviral therapy (ART)—can slow or even stop this progression. ART helps people with HIV stay healthier and live longer.
Photo from National Institutes of Health
There are three stages of HIV infection: Acute HIV Infection, Chronic HIV Infections, and AIDS.
Acute HIV Infection
Acute HIV Infection
Acute HIV infection is the first stage of HIV and usually appears within 2 to 4 weeks after infection. Some people experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and rash during this time. In this stage, HIV rapidly spreads and attacks the immune system’s CD4 cells. The amount of HIV in the blood is very high, which increases the risk of passing it to others. Starting HIV treatment at this early stage can lead to important health benefits.
Chronic HIV Infection
Chronic HIV Infection
Also known as clinical latency, HIV remains active but reproduces at low levels. Most people don’t experience any symptoms during this period. Without treatment, chronic HIV typically progresses to AIDS within 10 years or more, though it may progress faster for some. With ongoing ART, people can stay in this stage for many years. Although HIV can still be transmitted, those on ART with an undetectable viral load have no risk of passing the virus through sexual contact with an HIV-negative partner.
WHAT IS AIDS?
WHAT IS AIDS?
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the advanced stage of HIV infection. When HIV significantly weakens the immune system by reducing CD4+ cells, the body becomes vulnerable to opportunistic infections—serious illnesses that can occur in people with compromised immunity. Without treatment, AIDS can lead to severe health complications and, eventually, death.
References:The stages of HIV infection | NIH. (n.d.). HIVinfo | Information on HIV/AIDS Treatment, Prevention and Research | NIH. https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/stages-hiv-infection
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