What is AIDS

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is an illness that weakens the body's immune system. The immune systems of people with AIDS are not able to fight off certain infections and cancers. AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which destroys important immune system cells.

HIV is spread through contact with HIV-infected blood or other body fluids including semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. Early symptoms of AIDS include rapid weight loss, dry cough and unexplained fatigue. With medication, the development of AIDS can be prevented, delayed, or controlled in many people infected with HIV.

Reference for AIDS Article

National Institutes of Health

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