The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, weakens yourimmune system so it can’t fight off common germs, viruses, fungi, and other invaders. It’s the virus that causes AIDS, acquired immune deficiencysyndrome. Someone with HIV can gs.et sick from things that don’t usually affect people, and people with AIDS tend to get certain uncommon diseases and illnesse

Anyone can get HIV. Both men and women can spread HIV. A person with HIV can feel OK and still give the virus to others.

Robert Karma via CompfightAccording to the CDC, about 1.2 million people in the U.S. are living with the HIV infection, and there are about 50,000 new HIV infections each year.

Having HIV does not always mean that you have AIDS. It can take many years for people with the virus to develop AIDS.

HIV and AIDS can’t be cured, but the medications available today help people stay healthy and live longer.