HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) attacks the body’s immune system and can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing needles, and during pregnancy, birth or breast feeding. Symptoms can include fever, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue; some people have no symptoms. Left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Each year, July 21 is designated as Zero HIV Stigma Day to help raise awareness about HIV stigma and ways to prevent it. HIV stigma can affect the emotional well-being and mental health of people living with HIV. Examples of stigma include believing that only certain groups of people can get HIV and feeling that people deserve to get the disease because of their lifestyle choices. Talking openly and learning more about HIV can help to end the stigma. To learn more, visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.