HIV stands for human immune deficiency syndrome wherein the body's immune system becomes compromised, leaving it vulnerable to other diseases that can lead to full-blown AIDS and death.
AIDS stands for acquired immune deficiency syndrome. The first AIDS case in the US was reported in June, 1981. Since that time, the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia, estimates 56,300 new cases of HIV were reported in 2006.
HIV and AIDS are transmitted through intimate sexual contact when bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal secretions are exchanged.
Safeguards against getting HIV or AIDS include using barrier methods of contraception such as condoms and dental dams or refraining from sexual intercourse where bodily fluids are exchanged. See Resources.
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