Common Questions About HIV and AIDS

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It targets and weakens the immune system by destroying CD4 cells. If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS.

AIDS was first recognized in 1981, when doctors noticed unusual illnesses appearing in otherwise healthy young men. HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, was identified a couple of years later, in 1983.

No. HIV is the virus, while AIDS is the disease that occurs when the virus has critically weakened the immune system. A person can live with HIV for years without developing AIDS, especially with proper treatment.

HIV is spread through certain body fluids — blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk — most commonly through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding

HIV can be transmitted as soon as someone is exposed to an infected body fluid. It cannot be transmitted through casual, everyday contact.

Early HIV symptoms often resemble the flu and can include fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, rash, and fatigue. These typically appear 2 to 4 weeks after exposure.

There is currently no cure for HIV. However, with the right treatment it can be controlled. Antiretroviral therapy can reduce the virus to undetectable levels, allowing people to live long, healthy lives.

No. HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva, so activities like kissing, sharing drinks, or casual contact do not pose a risk.

Symptoms may appear 2 to 4 weeks after exposure, but they can be mild or mistaken for the flu. Some people have no symptoms for years, which is why testing is the only reliable way to know your status.

You can lower your risk by using condoms, taking PrEP if you are at higher risk, getting tested regularly, and never sharing needles.

HIV is detected through blood or saliva tests. Testing is recommended for anyone who is sexually active or who may have been exposed. Test4FreeHIV offers free, confidential testing across Miami-Dade County.