Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) weakens a person’s immune system by destroying cells that fight disease and infection. If left untreated, it can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
There’s currently no effective cure for HIV, but it can be controlled with proper medical care. Some groups of people in the United States are more likely to get HIV than others because of many factors, including their sex partners and risk behaviors.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care, and more often if you are at risk for getting HIV.