Overview
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a chronic infection that destroys the body’s immune system and spreads through the transfer of bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal and rectal fluids, and even breast milk. It can be dormant or present with mild flu-like symptoms for years before progressing into chronic fevers from frequent infections and extreme fatigue. The final stage of HIV is known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), though AIDS can be reversed into HIV-only through treatments like Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).
Substance use can increase the risk of indulging behaviors through which someone might be contract HIV, like sharing needles or engaging in unprotected sex.