HIV/AIDS

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the virus that can cause AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). HIV is most commonly transmitted during anal and vaginal sex, while sharing syringes or equipment to inject drugs or other substances, and less commonly, during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.

Without treatment, HIV attacks and weakens the immune system, which makes people living with HIV vulnerable to a variety of infections and some cancers. HIV treatment is so effective that people living with HIV can live a long and healthy life, but there is still no vaccine or cure for HIV.