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Primary HIV Infection Symptoms

HIV is an acronym for the human immunodeficiency virus, an incurable illness that over time destroys the body's immune system. It is spread through unprotected sexual or blood contact, and becomes visible in a toxicology screening between three and six months after infection. Individuals who have become infected with the virus may show signs before then, however they are often not linked to HIV as they resemble common cold and flu symptoms.

  1. No Initial Symptoms

    • HIV produces no symptoms for up to four weeks after infection has occurred, making it easy to spread unknowingly.

    Fever and Sore Throat

    • After two to four weeks, one of the primary HIV infection symptoms is fever accompanied by a sore throat.

    Swollen Glands

    • Swollen lymph nodes, particularly under the arms and around the neck, are another primary symptom of HIV infection.

    Fatigue

    • Unnatural fatigue accompanies these other symptoms, and can mislead individuals into thinking their symptoms are the result of a rhinovirus infection.

    Rash

    • The characteristic and defining primary symptom of HIV infection is a rash that is focused around the torso, genitals and arms.

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