HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the cells that fight infections in the body. HIV makes a person much more vulnerable to other infections and diseases. If HIV is left untreated, it can develop into AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). In this chapter, we'll talk more in detail about what they are and how to stay safe from them.

HIV can be transmitted from one person to another through certain bodily fluids. Most commonly, this happens during unprotected sex or through sharing injection needles. HIV can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.

Things like hugging, kissing, touching objects that an HIV-positive person has touched, or basically any other forms of contact where bodily fluids are not exchanged, cannot transmit HIV. Animals or insects also can't transmit the virus.

At the beginning of the infection, HIV may cause flu-like symptoms. However, not everyone gets these, and sometimes HIV isn't really noticeable without testing at all.

HIV weakens the body's immune system over time, making it more vulnerable to diseases. This is why HIV-positive people should always be careful not to contract any other illnesses. However, medication against HIV can prevent it from weakening the immune system as much.

Sadly, there is no cure for HIV. However, there are medications that can fight the effects of HIV as well as prevent an HIV-positive person from transmitting the virus to their sexual partners or their children. Some medications also protect non-infected people from getting HIV through sex or drug use. Using condoms during sex will also help with staying safe from HIV.

Now that HIV is covered, what is AIDS? AIDS is the late stage of HIV, where the virus has damaged the immune system a lot. HIV medication can prevent AIDS from developing if it is taken regularly.

Once AIDS has developed, the infected person will get other illnesses that take advantage of the person's weakened immune system. These illnesses are called opportunistic infections.

If HIV develops into AIDS, it is much more difficult, but not impossible, to treat. Diagnosing AIDS also requires a different test, and AIDS is considered more infectious than HIV. However, they are both transmitted in the same ways, so it's completely safe to interact with people who have AIDS.

If you've had unsafe sex with an HIV-positive person or have other reason to suspect that you might have gotten infected, most health clinics and hospitals can provide HIV testing. They can also give you more resources and advice on the situation.

In conclusion, while HIV and AIDS should be taken seriously, they are not something to be afraid of, and HIV-positive people shouldn't be treated any differently than others. With proper medication as well as precautions during sex, people with HIV can live completely normal, healthy lives.

Sources:
https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/about-hiv-and-aids/what-are-hiv-and-aids
https://helloclue.com/articles/sex/hiv-sexual-transmission-risk-factors-and-prevention
https://www.healthline.com/health/hiv-aids/hiv-vs-aids#outlook