What’s the Main Difference Between HIV and AIDS?

Dr.Prabhat Sinha, 2 mins read

Most people have heard the words HIV and AIDS, but many still believe they mean the same thing. This confusion often leads to fear, stigma, and unnecessary stress. In reality, knowing the difference can help us protect ourselves, support others with compassion, and stop the spread of misinformation. So, in this blog, we tried to explain the difference between HIV and AIDS in a simple and easy way.

What Is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that enters the body and attacks the immune system, which helps us fight infections. If someone has HIV, it means the virus is present in their body. But with modern medicines, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives and may never develop AIDS.

Main features of HIV:

• It is a virus.
  
• It weakens the immune system slowly.
  
• It can be controlled with daily medication.
  
• People with HIV can live normally, work, marry, and even have HIV-negative children.
  

What Is AIDS?

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the advanced stage of HIV infection.
This happens when HIV has damaged the immune system so much that the body becomes unable to fight certain infections or cancers.

Main features of AIDS:

• It is a condition, not a virus, which happens due to low immunity caused by HIV virus.
  
• It occurs when HIV infection is not treated for a long time.
  
• HIV infection decreases immunity, which leads to AIDS.
  
• With treatment, many people can recover their immune strength and return to an HIV stage.
• Proper HIV treatment leads to the prevention of AIDS.
  

Main Difference Between HIV and AIDS

Can HIV Be Prevented?

HIV can be prevented if some simple steps mentioned below will be followed:

• Use protection during sexual contact.
  
• Avoid sharing needles.
  
• Get tested regularly.
  
• Pregnant women with HIV can take medicine to protect their baby.
• Practicing safe blood transfusion 

Can HIV Be Treated?

At present, treatment is so effective that people with HIV can have a normal lifespan, strong immunity, and undetectable viral levels (which means they cannot transmit HIV to their partners - U=U).

Conclusion

HIV doesn’t have to lead to AIDS. With awareness, early testing, and proper treatment, a person with HIV can stay healthy and live a full, meaningful life. We should understand the difference, as by understanding this, we can take our first step toward ending stigma and supporting those affected with it. For appointment bookings and any queries, please call: 88 000 159 05