Information & Education

What is HIV and AIDS?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. When the virus gets inside our bodies, it begins to copy itself and damage the immune system. Over a period of years, HIV weakens the body’s immune system to the point where it may no longer be able to fight infections.

HIV is transmitted through five body fluids: blood, semen (including pre-cum), vaginal and anal secretions, and breast milk. Saliva, tears, and urine can have the virus in them, but the concentrations are so small that the risk of transmission is extremely low. However, if any body fluid is mixed with blood, the risk increases.

Once HIV takes hold in the body, it starts doing serious damage to the immune system. Often, there are no external signs or symptoms for many years. People who feel and appear perfectly healthy may unknowingly pass the virus to others.

AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. AIDS is a medical condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and can be understood as the advanced stage of an HIV infection.

For more information contact:

24 hour recorded line: STD/HIV Information Line: 1.800.772.2437

During regular office hours: AHS Edmonton STD Centre: 780.342.2300

During regular office hours: HIV Edmonton Educators: 780.488.5742

Urgent outside of regular office hours: Healthlink: tollfree at 1.866.408.5465

Please contact an HIV Edmonton Educator if you would like to book an education workshop.