Jan 13, 2014 · HIV vs. AIDS: What’s the Difference? HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, while AIDS, or stage 3 HIV, is a condition that results from the severe damage caused by HIV over time.

Sep 3, 2024 · Learn more about the differences in symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for HIV and AIDS.

Jan 6, 2026 · HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system over time. AIDS is the most severe phase of HIV when the immune system is badly damaged. Early treatment can stop HIV from turning into …

Apr 23, 2025 · A person can have AIDS caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, but AIDS is a syndrome (that is, a set of signs and symptoms that appear together and characterize a disease or …

Nov 12, 2025 · AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection that occurs when the body’s immune system is badly damaged because of the virus. In the U.S., most people with HIV do not develop AIDS …

In this article, we explore the key differences between HIV and AIDS, clarify common misconceptions, and outline what healthcare providers and patients need to know moving into 2025.

HIV, for one, is a virus, a small infectious agent that multiplies itself by taking control of cells inside a host. AIDS, on the other hand, is a syndrome, a group of connected symptoms that are usually …

May 28, 2025 · HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus, which is the virus that causes HIV infection. The acronym “HIV” can refer to the virus or to HIV infection. AIDS stands for acquired …

Mar 12, 2023 · Keep reading to find out the key distinctions between HIV and AIDS, including symptoms, progression, treatment options, and overall impact on health.

Ultimately, HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and AIDS is a term that can only be used when HIV has caused severe damage to the immune system. This page was last reviewed in …