Health organizations are warning that up to 3.3 million new HIV infections could occur over the next five years. The concern comes as global funding and prevention efforts have slowed, reversing years of progress.
HIV, the virus that can lead to AIDS, was first identified in the early 1980s. Today, treatment has advanced to the point where most people with HIV can live long, healthy lives. Modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) stops the virus from reproducing, often reducing it to an undetectable level. Prevention medications such as PrEP have also made transmission far less common when used correctly.
Despite these advances, experts say many people still do not have access to testing, treatment, or prevention tools.
What HIV and AIDS Do to the Body
HIV targets the immune system, specifically CD4 cells, which help the body fight infections. As these cells decline, the immune system becomes weaker. HIV spreads through contact with certain bodily fluids, including blood, sexual fluids, and breast milk, when the infected person has a detectable viral load.
The disease typically progresses through four stages:
1. Early HIV Infection
Symptoms often appear two to four weeks after exposure. Many people feel flu-like, with:
- Fever
- Headache and body aches
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Diarrhea or weight loss
Some people notice no symptoms at all, but the virus is highly contagious at this point.
2. Chronic HIV
This stage can last years. The virus remains active but at lower levels. Many people feel normal, though the immune system continues to weaken. With treatment, this stage can last decades.
3. Symptomatic HIV
As immune damage increases, recurring infections may appear, such as fatigue, fevers, diarrhea, weight loss, thrush, shingles, or pneumonia.
4. AIDS
AIDS develops when CD4 levels fall very low. People become vulnerable to serious infections and certain cancers. Symptoms may include persistent fevers, severe fatigue, rapid weight loss, and white patches in the mouth.
With today’s treatments, most people receiving proper care never progress to AIDS.
