Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the white blood cells, weakening a person’s immunity against opportunistic infections, such as tuberculosis and fungal infections, severe bacterial infections and some cancers. The most advanced stage of HIV infection is acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

There is no cure for HIV infection. However, with increasing access to effective HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care, including for opportunistic infections, HIV infection has become a manageable chronic health condition, enabling people living with HIV to lead long and healthy lives.

Though people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) tend to be most infectious in the first few months after being infected, many are unaware of their status until the later stages.