The full form of HIV is Human Immunodeficiency Virus, and this is the same virus which leads to AIDS or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. HIV is transmitted through blood, and if the appropriate healthcare is given, the magnitude of the disease can be reduced, and AIDS can be delayed.
HIV stays in incubation for a long time before it impacts the immune system. The incubation period can be as long as ten years, and after this, HIV starts impacting the immune system of the patient. It breaks down the cells responsible for protecting the body from infection. HIV can be caused by unprotected sex with an infected individual, reuse of a needle used by an infected individual or receiving blood from an infected person, and it can be transferred from mother to infant through the placenta.
If you have engaged in unprotected sex or if you think you have been exposed to HIV, you must first get yourself tested. For HIV, prevention is the only cure. You should be aware of the factors that can transmit HIV, and you must also avoid sharing razors, syringes, needles and toothbrushes. So, always engage in safe sex and avoid anything that can lead to infection.