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HIV
HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system. With today's treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives and cannot pass it on when the virus is undetectable. Early testing is key.
Causes & risk factors
- Unprotected vaginal or anal sex
- Sharing needles or injecting equipment
- From a mother to baby during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding
- Contact with infected blood
- It is not spread by everyday contact, kissing or sharing utensils
Common symptoms
- A flu-like illness a few weeks after infection
- Sore throat and body aches
- Swollen glands
- A rash
- Often no symptoms for years
- Weight loss and repeated infections (later, untreated)
Tests & diagnosis
- HIV blood test (or finger-prick / home test)
- Repeat testing after any recent exposure (window period)
- Testing for other STIs
Treatment & management
- Antiretroviral therapy (daily tablets) controls the virus
- Treatment keeps the immune system healthy and life expectancy near normal
- When the virus is undetectable it cannot be passed on sexually (U=U)
- PrEP can prevent HIV in people at higher risk
- PEP can reduce risk if started soon after possible exposure
When to see a doctor urgently
- After any possible exposure — ask urgently about PEP (within 72 hours)
- For routine testing if you are sexually active or share needles
- A flu-like illness after a recent risk, or to discuss PrEP
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about hiv. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is HIV a death sentence?
No. With modern treatment, people with HIV can expect a normal life span and good health. The key is early diagnosis and starting treatment.
What does undetectable = untransmittable mean?
When treatment lowers the virus to an undetectable level in the blood, HIV cannot be passed on through sex. This is known as U=U.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.