HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that can cause AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Left untreated, HIV can weaken a person’s immune system over time by disabling the body’s ability to fight infections. Treatment of HIV has never been better. It’s more effective, easier to manage – one pill per day for many patients – with fewer side effects. Early treatment can provide a longer and better quality of life. When viral activity is suppressed, it can lower a person’s infectiousness and greatly reduce the risk of transmission. Compared to most of the U.S., Vermont has a relatively small number of people living with HIV. Most Vermonters with HIV are in medical care, take medications and are virally suppressed.
HIV
HIV
In This Section
HIV can be prevented, and the risk of infection greatly reduced, through changes in behaviors or taking actions that can interrupt transmission.
Health care providers can play a key role to help reduce HIV transmission
HIV surveillance is the process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data on individuals who are infected.