What is AIDS? HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. If untreated, a person’s immune system will eventually be completely destroyed. AIDS refers to a set of symptoms and illnesses that occur at the very final stage of HIV infection. Testing regularly for HIV means you can access treatment if you need it and stay healthy.

Facts… UK: Internationally: There are over 36 million people living with HIV worldwide. In some of the worst affected countries in sub-Saharan Africa, rates of HIV infection are still as high as 1 in 3. Overall, about half of those infected by HIV worldwide, are women. UK: There are over 103,000 people living with HIV in the UK. About 6,000 people are diagnosed with HIV in the UK each year. In the UK, an estimated 20,000 children live in a family affected by HIV.

World AIDS Day: 1st December