What is AIDS?

AIDS is a life-threatening condition that consists of a group of serious illnesses. It develops when the human immune system is severely damaged by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Meaning of the term:

The word AIDS stands for the following:

Acquired: This means that a person must contract the virus, as it is not a hereditary disease.

Immune: This refers to the body’s immune system, which is affected and weakened.

Deficiency: This means a lack or weakening of the immune system, making the body less able to fight infections.

Syndrome: This indicates a collection of symptoms and illnesses that appear together in a person suffering from AIDS.