Animation - How the HIV Infection Cycle Works

What factors influence the time period from initial HIV infection and the development of symptoms?

HIV is an unusual viral disease in that individuals can carry the virus for very extended periods of time without becoming ill, or exhibiting any symptoms at all. However, at any time, the symptoms of AIDS can manifest themselves. The variation in time until onset of the disease is associated with several factors. The most important is having a well-functioning immune system. Individuals with weak immune systems, such as older people or people with certain types of pre-existing infections develop AIDS more rapidly, on average, than other people do. Other factors that influence the onset of disease are treatment with various medications, the strain of HIV involved, and the genotype of the infected person.

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