HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a retrovirus that infects cells of the immune system and uses them to replicate itself. Over time, HIV destroys and impairs the function of immune cells, progressively destroying the body's ability to fight infections and certain cancers. There is currently no cure for HIV/AIDS, but antiretroviral treatment can control the virus and prevent transmission. HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Common routes of transmission include unprotected sex, contaminated needles, and from mother to child during birth or breastfeeding.