FAQs – National Aids Secretariat (NAS)

What is HIV/AIDS?
- HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which help the immune system fight off infections. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection, where the immune system is severely compromised, leading to opportunistic infections and cancers.
How is HIV transmitted?
- HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal, or oral) with an infected person, sharing contaminated needles or syringes, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. It is not spread by casual contact like shaking hands or sharing food.
What are the symptoms of HIV/AIDS?
- In the early stages of HIV infection, individuals may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. However, some people may not show any symptoms for years. As the disease progresses to AIDS, symptoms can include rapid weight loss, recurring fever, extreme tiredness, and prolonged swelling of the lymph nodes.
Is there a cure for HIV/AIDS?
- As of 2024, there is no cure for HIV/AIDS. However, with proper medical care and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV can lead long and healthy lives. ART helps suppress the virus, reduce the risk of transmission, and slow down the progression to AIDS.
How can HIV/AIDS be prevented?
- Prevention strategies include practicing safe sex by using condoms, avoiding sharing needles or syringes, getting tested and knowing your partner’s HIV status, and, for pregnant women, receiving prenatal care and treatment to prevent transmission to the baby. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is also available for individuals at high risk of HIV infection.
Can HIV/AIDS be transmitted through kissing or saliva?
- No, HIV cannot be transmitted through saliva or casual contact like kissing, hugging, or sharing utensils. The virus is not present in sufficient quantities in saliva to transmit the infection.
What should I do if I think I’ve been exposed to HIV?
- If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a treatment regimen that can reduce the risk of HIV infection if started within 72 hours of exposure. Additionally, getting tested for HIV is crucial for early detection and starting treatment if necessary.
What is the current global status of HIV/AIDS?
- HIV/AIDS remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and other regions with limited access to healthcare resources. However, significant progress has been made in prevention, treatment, and awareness efforts, leading to a decline in new infections and AIDS-related deaths in many parts of the world. Efforts toward achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets (95% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 95% of those diagnosed with HIV receiving treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieving viral suppression) are ongoing.

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