AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is a disease believed to be caused by a virus called HIV. The HIV virus attacks the immune system. When the immune system has been broken down, you can lose the protection to fight off many serious, often deadly infections and cancers. These are called opportunistic infections as they take advantage of your weakened defenses. It's usually these opportunistic infections that cause death. AIDS is the condition that does not resist, letting thses infections enter and take hold. This virus does not recognize risk/ethnic/age groups. You are at risk too!

HIV can be transmitted through certain body fluids such as: blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. There is no evidence that the virus is transmitted through saliva, tears or sweat. HIV enters the body through mucous membranes (the lining of the rectum, the walls of the vagina, or the inside of the mouth and throat) or through direct contact with the bloodstream. The virus cannot enter through the skin, unless the skin is broken or cut and another person's infected body fluids enter the bloodstream. The virus cannot be transmitted through the air by sneezing or coughing. There is absolutely no danger in casual contact with people with HIV.