The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) targets the immune system and weakens people's defence systems against infections and some types of cancer. It is transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse (anal or vaginal), transfusion of contaminated blood, sharing of contaminated needles, and between a mother and her infant during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.

7 out of 10 people living with HIV are male, which is largely attributed to continued high-risk behaviours such as unprotected sex, and sharing of injecting equipment. 

There is no cure for HIV infection. WHO recommends standard antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all people with HIV as soon as possible after diagnosis so that people with HIV, and those at substantial risk, can enjoy healthy, long and productive lives.