This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system over time; AIDS is its late stage. With free antiretroviral therapy available across Nigeria, people who test early and stay on treatment live long, healthy lives and cannot transmit the virus once it is suppressed. Testing is quick, confidential and widely available.
Symptoms
Often no symptoms for years
Flu-like illness weeks after infection
Persistent swollen lymph nodes
Unexplained weight loss
Recurrent fevers or night sweats
Frequent infections such as thrush or shingles
Chronic diarrhoea
Causes & risk factors
Unprotected sex with an infected partner
Sharing needles, blades or sharp objects
Transfusion of unscreened blood
Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding
Treatment & self-care
Daily antiretroviral tablets, started as soon as possible after diagnosis, keep the virus suppressed and the immune system strong. Treatment is free at designated centres, with regular viral-load monitoring. Condoms, partner testing and medication adherence prevent transmission; pregnant women on treatment protect their babies.
See a doctor urgently if
You have never tested and have had any risk exposure
Possible exposure within the last 72 hours (ask about PEP urgently)
Weight loss, chronic fever or recurring infections
You are on treatment and keep missing doses or feel unwell
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of HIV/AIDS?
Early signs often include often no symptoms for years, flu-like illness weeks after infection, persistent swollen lymph nodes. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can HIV/AIDS be treated?
Daily antiretroviral tablets, started as soon as possible after diagnosis, keep the virus suppressed and the immune system strong. Treatment is free at designated centres, with regular viral-load monitoring. Condoms, partner testing and medication adherence prevent transmission; pregnant women on treatment protect their babies.
When should I see a doctor about HIV/AIDS?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: you have never tested and have had any risk exposure; possible exposure within the last 72 hours (ask about pep urgently); weight loss, chronic fever or recurring infections; you are on treatment and keep missing doses or feel unwell.