Learn more about HIV :: What is HIV?

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that affects certain white blood cells—CD4 T cells—that manage human immune system responses. When these blood cells are damaged, it becomes difficult for people to fight off infections or diseases. This condition is called "HIV disease."

Human - because the virus can only infect human beings. Although similar diseases exist in other animals, such as monkeys and cats, those viruses cannot infect humans nor can HIV infect other animals.

Immunodeficiency - because the virus creates a deficiency with the body's immune system, causing it to fail to work properly.

Virus - because the organism is a virus that is incapable of reproducing by itself; it must use a human cell to reproduce.