AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and it’s caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV. When a person with HIV gets more serious infections because of a weak immune system, they are said to have AIDS.

HIV is spread through blood, semen, and vaginal fluid. This is why activities such as sharing needles, vaginal sex, and anal sex are the most common ways of acquiring HIV. It’s important not to share needles and to use condoms with all types of sexual activity (including oral sex) to fully protect yourself and your partner.