HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus that attacks the immune system, which is the body's defence against infections and diseases. HIV can lead to a weakened immune system and cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is a potentially life-threatening condition.
HIV is primarily spread through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes with an infected person, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The virus can also be transmitted through blood transfusions or organ transplants from an infected donor, although this is now rare in most countries due to routine screening of donated blood and organs.
There is no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively suppress the virus and prevent the progression to AIDS. Prevention of HIV involves practising safe sex, avoiding sharing needles or syringes, and getting regular HIV testing.
In addition to Human Immunodeficiency Virus, HIV can also stand for other medical abbreviations such as Hepatic Intravascular Venous Pressure (in the context of liver disease), High-Intensity Interval Training (in the context of exercise physiology), or Heart-Induced Vasoconstriction (in the context of cardiology).