HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection has now spread to all countries in the world and has infected more than 40 million people worldwide at the end of 2003. More than 1.1 million people in the USA have been infected with HIV. The scourge of HIV has been particularly devastating in Sub-Saharan Africa. The proportion of women among those adults who are infected with HIV is increasing.

HIV is present in the blood and genital secretions of virtually all people infected with HIV, regardless of whether or not they have symptoms. The spread of HIV can occur when these secretions come into contact with tissues such as those lining the vagina, anal region, mouth or eyes , or with a break in the skin, like a break or perforation by a needle.

HIV is an abbreviation for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome or AIDS as it is generally called, is the result of this virus. When a person has AIDS, the immune system gradually break downs. The patient then becomes highly susceptible to infections and illnesses, which could even, be fatal. History dates its origin to June 5th 1981 in Los Angeles where the virus was found in five homosexual men. It was then called GRID or Gay-Related Immune Deficiency because people thought it only affected homosexual people. This theory was soon blown to pieces when cases were reported from all over. Today, AIDS has reached epidemic proportions. It has plagued most countries around the world and is considered a highly dangerous disease.

Doctors, nurses and Medicare professionals are also exposed to this virus as they deal with syringes and needles on a daily basis. If you have AIDS and if you are looking for a doctor, then do some preliminary research on the doctor before you meet him or her. The doctor should be reliable and must be aware of the nuances of the field. You should choose a doctor who you are comfortable with.