What Is It

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the cause of AIDS.

How Many Get It

An estimated 20,000 Americans are infected through sexual transmission each year, and an estimated 650,000 to 900,000 people in the U.S. are living with HIV.

Signs

Many people who have HIV don't know it because symptoms may not appear for 10 years or longer. Others experience unexplained weight loss, flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, fatigue, persistent fevers, night sweats, headaches, or severe or recurring vaginal yeast infections.

How It's Spread

Through unprotected vaginal, oral, anal sex, and also through sharing contaminated needles, during pregnancy, or breast feeding. During penetrative intercourse, the receptive partner is at higher risk for HIV infection than the insertive partner.

Treatment

There is no cure for AIDS, and it is considered fatal. Antiviral medications can slow the progression of HIV infection and delay the onset of AIDS symptoms. Early treatment can make a big difference.

Possible Consequences

Increased risk for infection of other STDs. HIV is the deadliest STD of all and can weaken the body's ability to fight disease, making someone vulnerable to certain cancers and infections such as pneumonia.

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