HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. HIV attacks and destroys the immune system, leading to AIDS which is the late stage of HIV infection. HIV evolved from SIV which infects simians and has a high mutation rate with many subtypes. HIV is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, most commonly during unprotected sex or sharing drug injection equipment. While all humans are susceptible to HIV, some people of northern European descent have a genetic mutation that makes them virtually immune. HIV/AIDS has impacted the world by increasing safe sex education and awareness campaigns as well as creating organizations like the Global Fund to fight diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.