Written by: Bratislav Prokić / April 2020
If you have been at risk of HIV infection in the last 24h to 48h, contact us for a referral to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), a therapy that can prevent the infection from occurring.
What are the first symptoms of HIV infection?
Symptoms vary from person to person. Most develop flu-like symptoms, namely swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, fever, dry and sore throat, headache, joint and muscle pain, night sweats, etc. Symptoms usually go unnoticed because the infected person does not associate them with recent risk for HIV infection.
When do the first symptoms of HIV infection appear and how long do they last?
The first symptoms may appear after a week or two, or later – up to two months from the moment of infection. Symptoms may be completely absent. They can last only a few days or persist for several weeks. How strong the symptoms will be and how long they will be manifested varies from person to person, that is, it depends on how one’s body will react to the presence of HIV.
Can HIV be transmitted in this (acute) phase of infection?
The possibility of HIV infection (infectivity) is greatest in the acute phase, i.e. several weeks and months after infection. This is because in this period the virus reproduces unhindered in huge quantities.
Should therapy be started in the acute phase?
Absolutely. A person who detects HIV early and starts treatment in the acute phase can:
- Suppress the virus before it colonizes other organs (gut, brain...);
- Reduce immune reaction (fewer symptoms, inflammatory processes...);
- Preserve immune cells (CD4 lymphocytes);
- Prevent the transmission of HIV through sex.
Can symptoms of HIV infection be absent?
Yes. Symptoms of HIV infection may be absent. It can take anywhere from two to fifteen years for AIDS to develop and for serious and potentially fatal infections to appear. During this time, a person can transmit the virus and not feel any symptoms at all (asymptomatic phase).
Can a diagnosis of HIV infection be made based on symptoms?
No. Symptoms of acute HIV infection are similar to other infections and may be indicated clearly. The only way to diagnose HIV is through testing.