Why testing matters

• Early symptoms can be flu-like

  HIV-1 and HIV-2 may cause fever, fatigue, sore throat, rash, and swollen lymph nodes in the first few weeks after exposure.

• You may not feel sick — but still be infectious

  Many people live with HIV for years without symptoms, unknowingly transmitting the virus to others.

• Without treatment, HIV leads to AIDS

  Untreated HIV weakens the immune system over time, making the body vulnerable to life-threatening infections and cancers.