HIV

HIV is a virus that affects the immune system. Without treatment, an HIV infection can eventually lead to AIDS, which reduces the body's ability to fight infections and certain diseases. Thanks to modern medicine, people with HIV can now often lead long and healthy lives.

Because an HIV infection does not always cause symptoms immediately, many people do not know they are infected. Timely testing is therefore important, especially if you have had unprotected sex or otherwise been at risk.

What is HIV?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The virus attacks certain white blood cells that play an important role in the immune system. If left untreated, HIV can progressively weaken the immune system.

An HIV infection does not automatically mean that someone has AIDS. AIDS is the final stage of a prolonged, untreated HIV infection.

How do you get HIV?

HIV is transmitted through certain body fluids of someone infected with the virus.

Infection can occur through:

• Unprotected vaginal sex.
• Unprotected anal sex.
• Sharing contaminated needles.
• Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

In the Netherlands, sexual transmission is the most common route of infection.

What are the symptoms of HIV?

Shortly after infection, some people experience flu-like symptoms, while others experience no symptoms at all.

Possible initial symptoms include:

• Fever.
• Sore throat.
• Rash.
• Fatigue.
• Muscle pain.
• Swollen lymph nodes.

After this initial phase, HIV can be present for years without clear symptoms.

When should you get tested for HIV?

An HIV test is advisable when:

• You have had unprotected sex.
• A sexual partner has HIV.
• You have symptoms that could indicate a recent HIV infection.
• You have been at risk due to sharing needles.
• You want certainty after a potential risk exposure.

Even without symptoms, a test can be important.

How is HIV diagnosed?

An HIV infection is diagnosed with a blood test. Modern laboratory tests can reliably detect an infection when sufficient time has passed since the potential exposure.

If you are unsure about the correct timing for a test, it is advisable to follow the advice of a doctor or testing provider.

How is HIV treated?

Although HIV cannot currently be cured, effective medications are available that can strongly suppress the amount of virus in the body.

With good treatment, people with HIV can often have a normal life expectancy and significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

Can you prevent HIV?

The risk of HIV infection can be significantly reduced by practicing safe sex and taking other preventive measures.

This includes using condoms, getting regular tests if you are at risk, and discussing preventive treatments like PrEP with a doctor when applicable.

Frequently asked questions about HIV

Is HIV the same as AIDS?

No. HIV is the virus that can cause AIDS if left untreated.

Can you have HIV without symptoms?

Yes. Many people experience no symptoms of an HIV infection for years.

Is HIV curable?

Currently, HIV is not curable, but the virus can be effectively treated with medication.

How do I know for sure if I have HIV?

Only a reliable HIV test can determine if you are infected.

Can you live a normal life with HIV?

Yes. Thanks to modern treatments, many people with HIV have a normal life expectancy and a good quality of life.

In doubt? Get tested

An HIV infection does not always cause symptoms immediately. If you have been at risk or want certainty after unprotected sex, an HIV test is the best way to get clarity. The sooner an infection is detected, the sooner treatment can begin.