HIV fact sheet: Symptoms, prevention and treatment

Health workers take blood samples of people who want to undertake voluntary  HIV and AIDS testing inside the University of the Philippines Manila on November 29, 2019 during the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity’s Oblation Run The fraternity is using the annual event to call attention to universal health care and HIV and Aids. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA — The number of HIV or human immunodeficiency virus cases continues to rise in the Philippines, which has one of the fastest-growing epidemics in the world.

The government recorded 57 cases of HIV every day during the January to March 2025 period.

The Department of Health has proposed declaring a national public health emergency over the rising HIV cases to strengthen the response to the epidemic.

Here's what you need to know about HIV, which is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, making a person more vulnerable to various illnesses.

Anyone can get HIV, regardless of sex or gender identity.

HOW IS HIV TRANSMITTED?

Sexual contact is the most common mode of transmission. HIV can be transmitted when infected body fluids enter the body, such as:

• Semen or precum

• Vaginal secretions

• Blood

It can also be transmitted through:

• Sharing of needles, syringes, and other drug injection tools

• Pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding (mother-to-child transmission)

• Receiving blood or an organ from a donor living with HIV

HIV is not transmitted through:

• Sweat, tears, or saliva

• Hugging, kisses, or handshakes

• Sharing of utensils

• Using public restrooms

Remember that HIV does not survive long outside the human body.

HOW TO PREVENT HIV

Be honest with your partner and get tested regularly. If you are sexually active or engage with more than one partner, always use a condom and lubricant during every sexual encounter.

You can also use PrEP or pre-exposure prophylaxis, which serves as additional protection. On the other hand, PEP or post-exposure prophylaxis is available as an emergency treatment after possible exposure to the virus. Consult a doctor or visit social hygiene clinics near you for access to PrEP and PEP.

SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS

Symptoms may appear 3 to 6 weeks after exposure to the virus.

Some possible symptoms include:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Rashes

• Sore throat

• Body aches

It is important to note that some people may not show any symptoms and that only an HIV test can determine whether a person has contracted the virus.

TREATMENT FOR HIV

HIV is no longer a death sentence because antiretroviral therapy (ART) is now available to reduce the viral load of persons living with HIV.

With proper treatment, a person living with HIV can lead a normal life.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HIV AND AIDS?

HIV is the virus, while AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is the severe condition caused by HIV. The immune system of people living with AIDS becomes very weak, and various illnesses could emerge.

Progression to AIDS can be prevented if HIV is treated early with ART. But even if a person is diagnosed with AIDS, treatment is still available.

Sources:

• Department of Health

• Stanford Medicine

• HIV and AIDS Surveillance of the Philippines Jan–March 2025

Read the Filipino version here.

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