Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a fatal disease in which the immune system is weakened by the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV. It is often referred to as HIV/AIDS. A healthy immune system fights off infections andcertain diseases. HIV is a serious infection that progressively kills or impairs immune system cells. AIDS is not a single disease; it covers a wide rangeof symptoms and illnesses that can occur when the HIV virus becomes advancedenough to severely deplete the immune system. People who have AIDS can develop a variety of illnesses that are life-threatening.

How Can You Prevent Getting HIV/AIDS?

• Educate yourself. Know the facts. Act smart.
• Do not use alcohol or any kind of drugs.
• Know that it is OK not to have sex. But if you do, protect yourself and use a latex condom.
• Avoid contact with a person's blood, semen or vaginal fluid.