high risk
Human Immunodeficiency Virus
HIV
When to seek urgent care: Seek testing if exposed; treatable as chronic condition
Key facts
Family
Retroviridae
Type
RNA virus
Severity
Variable
Incubation
2-4 weeks (early)
Vaccine
None
Est. cases tracked
38,457
Symptoms
Flu-like illness (early)Often asymptomatic for yearsOpportunistic infections (late)
Transmission
BloodSexualMother-to-child
Prevention
Safe sexPrEPAvoid sharing needles
Treatment
Antiretroviral therapy (lifelong)
Related viruses (same family)
This page is educational information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. For health concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.