AIDS

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome is a medical condition where the immune system cannot function properly and protect the body from disease. As a result, the body cannot defend itself against infections such as pneumonia. AIDS is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This virus is spread through direct contact with the blood and body fluids of an infected individual. High risk activities include unprotected sexual intercourse and intravenous drug use (sharing needles). There is no cure for AIDS; however, research efforts to develop a vaccine are ongoing.