Stages of HIV Infection

HIV infection is usually described in three stages. Treatment with ART can stop the progression.

Stage 1: acute HIV infection

• Occurs within about 2 to 4 weeks of infection
• Flu-like symptoms in some people, or none
• The virus level is very high, so the risk of passing it on is high
• Some tests may be negative early on, and a repeat test is advised

Stage 2: chronic HIV infection (clinical latency)

• The virus keeps multiplying at lower levels
• Few or no symptoms
• Without treatment, this can last 10 years or more, but it varies
• With ART, people can stay in this stage for life and remain healthy

Stage 3: AIDS

• The immune system is badly damaged, with a CD4 count below 200 cells per cubic millimetre or certain serious infections or cancers
• Frequent or severe infections such as TB, pneumonia, fungal infections
• Without treatment, survival is usually about 3 years, but ART can restore immunity even at this stage

What tests track

• CD4 count: shows immune strength
• Viral load: the amount of virus in the blood. The goal is undetectable.

Key point

Starting ART as early as possible keeps the virus suppressed, protects the immune system and prevents transmission to others.

Before your appointment

Write down when you may have been exposed, and any symptoms such as fever, weight loss, cough or diarrhoea. List all medicines, herbs and supplements, and any pregnancy plans. Bring past test reports, including CD4 and viral load if you have them. Ask about testing, treatment, confidentiality, support services and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.