HIV is the virus that causes AIDS (autoimmune deficiency syndrome). HIV is transmitted from person to person by having unprotected sex and sharing needles for drug use injection. Some people are fearful about being tested for HIV because they are afraid the results could affect their family situation and how society would view them. HIV has the stigma of a “gay” disease but can affect anyone who has unprotected sex and shares needles. In reality, medical records are kept confidential so no one needs to know but the affected person. Fear prevents some people from being tested but education and information can ease fears. Ignorance is what kills people. When testing positive for HIV, it is important to have a positive attitude about the illness and gather information about HIV and AIDS. If tested early in the life of the virus, there is more chance of a normal life. The symptoms of HIV are night sweats, a dry cough, and swollen lymph nodes. If a person is not yet symptomatic, the T-cells are high and that person can handle medication. It takes up to 10 years for the virus to show itself. If a person has had unprotected sex or shared needles with an infected person, it is important to be tested in 3 months. If the test is negative, the person should be tested again in 3months. If in 6 months, this person has had two negative results for the HIV test, it is a good indication that that person does not have HIV. The rationale for early treatment is that one can become educated on the medications available. Blood work can be done every 3 months to monitor the disease. Research is being done to find a cure for HIV/AIDS. Education is the key to the prevention of HIV/AIDS.