Quick Answer
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system by infecting CD4 cells (helper T cells). Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, but modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels. When undetectable, HIV cannot be sexually transmitted—this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
- HIV is a retrovirus that uses RNA to insert its genetic code into human DNA.
- ART blocks different steps of the HIV life cycle, preventing the virus from multiplying.
- An undetectable viral load means the virus is not transmissible to sexual partners.
- AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection, marked by severe immune damage.
- Modern HIV testing can detect the virus within 2–4 weeks of exposure.
- Starting treatment early preserves immune function and improves long-term health.
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To understand how HIV works, it helps to know what makes it different from most viruses. HIV is a retrovirus: instead of using DNA directly, it carries RNA and uses an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to convert that RNA into DNA. It then inserts this viral DNA into the host cell's genome—a permanent hideout. The primary targets are CD4 cells, which coordinate the immune response. By hijacking these helper cells, HIV gradually weakens the body's defenses. Without treatment, the immune system declines, eventually reaching a point where opportunistic infections can take hold—that stage is called AIDS. Modern antiretroviral therapy stops the replication cycle, often bringing the viral load to undetectable levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does art work to treat hiv aids?
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system by infecting CD4 cells (helper T cells). Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, but modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels. When undetectable, HIV cannot be sexually transmitted—this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
What is art hiv?
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system by infecting CD4 cells (helper T cells). Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, but modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels. When undetectable, HIV cannot be sexually transmitted—this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
Did azt work for hiv?
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system by infecting CD4 cells (helper T cells). Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, but modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels. When undetectable, HIV cannot be sexually transmitted—this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
Does hiv prophylaxis work?
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system by infecting CD4 cells (helper T cells). Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, but modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels. When undetectable, HIV cannot be sexually transmitted—this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
How does art work hiv?
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system by infecting CD4 cells (helper T cells). Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, but modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels. When undetectable, HIV cannot be sexually transmitted—this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
How does hiv twsting work?
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system by infecting CD4 cells (helper T cells). Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, but modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels. When undetectable, HIV cannot be sexually transmitted—this is known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
Related Questions
Sources & Further Reading
- CDC — Sexually Transmitted Infections
- CDC STI Treatment Guidelines
- WHO — Sexually transmitted infections fact sheet
- MedlinePlus — Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.