Picture of HIV/AIDS

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that causes immunosuppression. The virus attacks CD4 T cells. If the condition progresses sufficiently enough, it progresses to the illness known as full-blown acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Medications are available to stop the progression of HIV and deter the development of AIDS. This antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a cocktail of medications that helps keep the illness at bay and reduces the risk of transmission to others. Due to the advent of ART, many people who have HIV live near normal lifespans.