What is the difference between AIDS and HIV?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells), which are crucial for maintaining the body’s defense against infections. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a condition that results from the advanced stages of HIV infection. Essentially, HIV is the causative agent, while AIDS is the clinical condition characterized by the severe damage to the immune system, leading to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Recognizing HIV as the virus and AIDS as the syndrome helps clarify the nature of both terms. Understanding this relationship between the two is crucial for effective counseling and education on transmission, prevention, and treatment strategies in the context of alcohol and drug counseling. This distinction emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment of HIV to prevent the progression to AIDS, which can have serious health consequences.