What Is HIV and How Is It Transmitted? 7 Key Facts Everyone Should Know

• HIV: What It Really Is
• How the Virus Spreads
• Breakthrough: Twice-Yearly Preventive Vaccine

Talking about HIV is more important than ever.

Despite remarkable medical advances over the past few decades, many people still have basic questions about what HIV is, how it’s transmitted, and how to prevent it.

Now, with the recent approval of an injectable vaccine called Yeztugo, which promises to dramatically reduce the risk of infection, it’s the perfect time to update what everyone should know about HIV.

Everything You Need to Know About What HIV Is

1. What Does HIV Stand For?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, weakening the body’s defenses.

If left untreated, it can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), an advanced stage where the body can no longer fight off other infections effectively.

2. How Is HIV Transmitted?

HIV is not spread through hugging, kissing, sharing utensils, or using public bathrooms. It is transmitted only through certain routes:

• Unprotected sexual contact.
• Sharing needles or syringes.
• Receiving contaminated blood transfusions (very rare today).
• From mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

RELATED: Take Care of Your Pancreas: 7 Things You’re Doing That Put It at Risk, According to New Studies

3. What Are the Early HIV Symptoms?

Many people don’t show immediate symptoms, but in some cases, early signs may include:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Skin rash
• Swollen lymph nodes

These symptoms often resemble the flu, making it essential to get tested if you think you might have been exposed.

4. How Do I Know If I Have HIV?

The only way to know for sure is to get tested. HIV tests are quick, confidential, and free at many health centers.

The sooner it’s detected, the better the chances of managing and controlling the infection.

5. Is There a Cure?

No. However, there is highly effective treatment. People living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives with antiretroviral (ARV) medication.

Also, when someone’s viral load is undetectable, they cannot transmit the virus sexually—a concept known as “Undetectable = Untransmittable.”

6. How Can I Protect Myself?

Here are the most effective ways to reduce your risk:

• Always use condoms during sex.
• Don’t share needles.
• Get tested regularly.
• Consider preventive medication like PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), recommended for individuals at higher risk of contracting HIV.

7. The Latest Hope: A Twice-Yearly Injectable Vaccine

In June 2025, the FDA approved Yeztugo (lenacapavir), a new injectable medication for HIV prevention.

Administered just twice a year, the vaccine has shown remarkable efficacy: reducing the risk of infection by 89% among gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals, and by 100% in cisgender women in sub-Saharan Africa.

While its cost (approximately $14,109 per dose) may limit widespread access, this vaccine represents one of the most promising breakthroughs in the 40-year fight against HIV.

Understanding how HIV is transmitted, how it’s detected, and how to prevent it is a powerful way to protect ourselves and others.

Although there’s no cure yet, tools like PrEP, effective treatments, and now this groundbreaking vaccine are transforming the fight against the virus.

The important thing is not to stay in the dark—get informed and make proactive decisions about your health.

Did you know there’s now an injectable vaccine that could help prevent HIV with just two doses a year?

SOURCE: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) / Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)