Overview
Primary HIV infection (PHI) syndrome is an acute, flu-like illness that develops anywhere from 1–6 weeks following exposure to HIV (the human immunodeficiency virus). Chronic infection with this virus can cause AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). The HIV virus destroys the body's ability to fight infections and some cancers by progressively attacking and damaging the cells of the immune system. The most common way of becoming infected is through unprotected sex with an infected partner.
The HIV virus is spread through exposure to the bodily fluids of an infected person through sex (vaginal, anal, or oral), blood exposure (through needle sharing, accidental blood exposure, blood transfusions, unsterilized medical equipment, or transplants), or from mother to child (during pregnancy, delivery, or through breast-feeding). The fluids must enter the body; ordinary skin contact and contact with sweat, tears, saliva, urine, or stool does not cause infection. There is no evidence that insect bites spread the virus.
You might see the first sign of infection within 1–2 months after becoming infected, and signs may disappear within 1–4 weeks. HIV is often mistaken for other types of viral infection, so be sure to consult with your doctor to confirm your diagnosis.
