HIV

What is HIV? 

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system. Without treatment, HIV can weaken the body’s ability to fight infections and may eventually lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). 

There is currently no cure for HIV, but effective treatment allows people with HIV to live long, healthy lives. 

Key Takeaways: 
  • HIV attacks the immune system 
  • It spreads through certain body fluids: blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, breast milk 
  • Many people have no symptoms when first infected 
  • The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested 
  • Effective treatment can help people with HIV live long, healthy lives 
  • Prevention tools such as condoms, PrEP, and PEP can reduce the risk of HIV transmission 
What are the symptoms of HIV? 

Symptoms may include: 

  • Fever 
  • Fatigue 
  • Sore throat 
  • Swollen lymph nodes 
  • Rash 
  • Muscle aches 

Some people develop flu-like symptoms 2-4 weeks after infection, while others may have no noticeable symptoms. The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. 

Illustration showing symptoms of HIV
How does HIV spread? 

HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids, including: 

  • Blood 
  • Semen 
  • Vaginal fluids 
  • Rectal fluids 
  • Breast milk 

Risk factors include: 

  • Having vaginal or anal sex without barrier protection 
  • Having multiple sexual partners 
  • Sharing needles or injection equipment 
  • Having another sexually transmitted infection (STI) 

HIV is NOT spread by: 

  • Hugging 
  • Handshakes 
  • Sharing food or drinks 
  • Toilet seats 
  • Coughing or sneezing 
  • Casual everyday contact 
How is HIV diagnosed & treated?  

HIV is diagnosed through testing using blood or oral fluid samples. 

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, talk with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Repeat testing may sometimes be recommended depending on when the exposure occurred. 

Treatment typically involves antiretroviral therapy (ART) — medications taken daily or monthly that help reduce the amount of HIV in the body and keep the immune system healthy. 

People who get treatment and take their medications as prescribed can live long, healthy lives. 

Are there any harmful effects? 

Without treatment, HIV can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of serious infections and illnesses. 

Over time, untreated HIV can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), the most advanced stage of HIV infection. 

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent many complications and help people stay healthy long term. 

What does follow up care look like? 

People living with HIV need regular healthcare appointments and laboratory monitoring. 

Follow-up care may include: 

  • Routine blood tests 
  • Monitoring viral load 
  • Medication management 
  • Preventive health screenings 
  • Vaccinations 

Taking medication consistently is one of the most important parts of staying healthy. 

How can I take care of myself? 
  • Take medications exactly as prescribed 
  • Attend regular healthcare appointments 
  • Stay physically active 
  • Eat a balanced diet 
  • Get enough sleep 
  • Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations 
  • Seek support from friends, family, mental health professionals, or meeting groups when needed 
What can I do to prevent HIV? 

Today, many tools exist to prevent HIV. This includes: 

  • Using condoms consistently and correctly 
  • Never sharing needles or injection equipment 
  • Considering PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), a medication that helps prevent HIV before exposure 
  • Asking about PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), an emergency medication that may help prevent HIV after a potential exposure 
  • Getting tested regularly 
How can I help a friend or loved one? 
  • Listen without judgment 
  • Help reduce stigma by learning accurate information about HIV 
  • Encourage healthcare follow-up and treatment 
  • Support healthy habits and mental well-being 
  • Respect privacy and confidentiality 
Campus Resources: 

CSU Health Network 

STD/HIV Hotlines: 
Other helpful links: