What is HIV? What are common symptoms?

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. HIV can be sexually transmitted, but it can also be passed on from individual to individual through mother-to-newborn transmission, blood, or breast milk. If left untreated, HIV can accumulate to a high enough viral load in the body to be classified as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Those with AIDS have damaged immune systems and are susceptible to getting severe illnesses, called opportunistic infections. Some people present with flu-like symptoms about 2-4 weeks after infection. These symptoms include fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and mouth ulcers. Currently, there is no cure to HIV/AIDS, but there are very effective treatments that allow people with HIV to live long, healthy lives and protect their sexual partners.